Shazam Star Adam Brody Passed Up on a Game-Changing Marvel Opportunity

Highlights

Guardians of the Galaxy could have had a very different cast, as several actors, including Adam Brody, auditioned for the role of Star-Lord, ultimately played by Chris Pratt.

Brody admits that while Pratt may have been the superior option in terms of physicality, he valued the character's tone and believes he would have provided a distinct interpretation for Star-Lord.

Additional contenders for the role of Star-Lord were Eddie Redmayne, Zachary Levi, John Krasinski, Jim Sturgess, and Joseph-Gordon Levitt. James Gunn considered Glenn Howerton as his backup choice.

The loveable cast of misfits that make up the Guardians of the Galaxy team have captured the hearts of audiences. However, it was almost a different story, with Adam Brody, the star of Shazam!, being considered for the role of Star-Lord. Since their first appearance in 2014, the Guardians of the Galaxy have become a beloved part of the MCU. With multiple films and even a Christmas special, it's clear that fans can't get enough of this team. It may be hard to imagine anyone else playing these characters now, but when the original film was being cast, there were several actors who auditioned for the roles, including Jason Momoa as Drax the Destroyer and Amanda Seyfried as Gamora. The Guardians of the Galaxy could have looked very different.

One of the most recent actors to disclose an unsuccessful audition is Shazam! star Brody. In an interview with the Just for Variety podcast, Brody shared that he tried out for the role of Star-Lord, which ultimately went to Chris Pratt. It might seem improbable now, but both Brody and Pratt were primarily recognized for their performances in a television series, and neither immediately conveyed the image of a superhero. While Brody would have unquestionably brought a distinct portrayal of Star-Lord, many concur that he had the potential to excel in the role.

Brody desired the role of Star-Lord greatly, but acknowledges that Pratt was the better choice due to his physicality. However, he did enjoy the character's tone. Other actors considered for the role include Redmayne, Levi, Krasinski, Sturgess, and Joseph-Gordon Levitt. Gunn revealed that his second top choice for Star-Lord was Howerton. Although Brody did not secure the role, he still made his superhero debut as an older superhero version of Freddy, Billy's best friend. He portrayed this character in both Shazam! and its sequel, Shazam! 2.

David Bowie's absence from Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 will always be felt, as he was intended to have a minor role. Director Gunn shared that Bowie was meant to portray a Ravager alongside other notable actors. However, Bowie's untimely death prevented him from filming the cameo. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 can now be streamed on Disney Plus.

Source: Variety