Jonathan Majors Marvel Replacement Denzel Washington’s Son?
John David Washington, son of legendary actor Denzel Washington, is reportedly being considered to take on the role of Kang the Conqueror. The rumor comes after Jonathan Majors was allegedly let go from the part after a Manhattan jury found him guilty of reckless assault and harassment on December 18, 2023.
John David Washington Stepping In?
Initially, Emmy Award winner Colman Domingo was rumored to be a frontrunner after Majors’ departure. Still, the most recent reports suggest that John David Washington could step into the shoes of the iconic time-traveling villain. Washington is best known for his work in Spike Lee’s BlacKkKlansman and Christopher Nolan’s Tenet.
John David Washington has also appeared on television with HBO’s Ballers and starred in other films by Gareth Edwards, including Monsters and Men, Malcolm & Marie, and The Creator.
Despite the speculation, it is unclear if Washington would be interested in portraying Kang. While the actor hinted at his openness to joining a superhero blockbuster in 2020, he did have a few conditions.
John David Or Denzel?
“I think it depends on who’s asking, what director wants to do it with me.” John David Washington said at the time.
“We’ll see. I want to stay open. I don’t want to box myself in.”
While some fans have been advocating for the younger Washington to take on the role, others have suggested that his father, Denzel, would be a better choice for Kang the Conqueror, alongside motivating fan art.
Not The Right Kang?
Other fans are skeptical about John David Washington’s ability to bring the necessary acting gravitas to the role of Kang the Conqueror.
On social media, detractors argue that Washington may not be ready for a lead actor status at Marvel, describing his casting as the lead in Christopher Nolan’s Tenet as particularly perplexing.
Too Much Like Dad?
Critics claim that John David Washington struggles with the subtlety and voice control required for exceptional performances. A central criticism revolves around Washington’s perceived effort to emulate the indelible on-screen presence of his legendary father.
Some argue that he falls short of his father’s charisma, appearing flat and dry, with a sense that he is trying too hard to create a strong presence.
Kang was supposed to replace Thanos as the primary villain in MCU, with the character set to play a significant role in the next two Avengers films.
Majors’ portrayal of Kang and variants such as Victor Timely and He Who Remains received widespread acclaim, but his legal troubles and subsequent conviction led to a shift in plans.
Doctor Doom Could Be Next
Although John David Washington could take Majors’ place, there has been speculation that Doctor Doom (who first appeared in The Fantastic Four #5 comic in 1962) could step in to fill the void as the MCU’s primary villain.
Meanwhile, Majors has addressed the circumstances surrounding his firing and conviction. He recently expressed sadness at being removed from the MCU and maintains his innocence in the alleged assault incident involving his ex-girlfriend.
Jonathan Majors Repercussions
Majors is set to face further legal proceedings, with a court date scheduled for February 6, potentially leading to a year-long prison sentence.
The repercussions of Majors’ situation extend beyond Marvel. His Disney/Searchlight Pictures film, Magazine Dreams, lost its planned premiere. The actor also lost a role in the upcoming biopic 48 Hours in Vegas.
Source: World of Reel
