The Mystery Surrounding Willem Dafoe's Absence in Aquaman 2

Despite being a crucial character in the DCEU and in Arthur Curry's backstory, Vulko, played by Willem Dafoe, is missing from Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom. Vulko was supposed to be Arthur's mentor and chief advisor once he became the ruler of Atlantis, but he does not appear in the sequel as anticipated.

Willem Dafoe's Vulko Wasn't In Aquaman 2 Due To Scheduling Conflicts

Originally, Willem Dafoe's first appearance as Vuko was going to be in 2017's Justice League before his scenes were ultimately cut. However, they were re-added to the feature with Zack Snyder's Justice League in 2021. Having been Arthur Curry's mentor and the introduction to his Atlantean heritage, Vulko played a crucial role in helping Arthur claim the throne from his half-brother Orm in 2018's Aquaman. That said, there's ultimately a very simple and real-life reason why Dafoe didn't return, as well as an in-universe explanation for Vulko's absence in Aquaman 2.

Multiple Other Projects

Willem Dafoe as Vulko in 2018's Aquaman - Multiple Other Projects - Willem Dafoe's Vulko Wasn't In Aquaman 2 Due To Scheduling Conflicts

Director James Wan confirmed in an interview with Entertainment Weekly that Willem Dafoe's absence in Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom was due to his busy schedule with other projects. IMDB shows that Dafoe was involved in over 10 different projects from the start of principal photography in 2021 until the movie's release in late 2023, including roles in films like The Northman, Asteroid City, and Poor Things.

Despite the delays faced by Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, Willem Dafoe remained occupied with various projects. This led director James Wan to explore the character of Atlanna, Aquaman's mother portrayed by Nicole Kidman, who takes on a more prominent role as Aquaman's advisor in the sequel. Although Vulko is not physically present in the film, his character is mentioned early on, shedding light on his tragic fate in the DC Extended Universe.

What Happened To Vulko In Aquaman 2

Atlantean Plague Caused By Human Pollution

Willem Dafoe as Nuidis Vulko speaks with Aquaman in the DCEU's Zack Snyder's Justice League - Atlantean Plague Caused By Human Pollution - What Happened To Vulko In Aquaman 2

During one of Aquaman's first council meetings in the DCEU sequel, it was revealed that Vulko had passed away due to a deadly plague caused by the pollution of the oceans. This tragic event shed light on why the leaders of the Seven Kingdoms were reluctant to establish peace with the surface world. Despite not witnessing it himself, Vulko's belief in Arthur's potential to unite land and sea was realized by the end of Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom. Arthur's address to the United Nations and the revelation of Atlantis showcased his role as a bridge between two worlds.

Source: James Wan/Entertainment Weekly

Editor's P/S:

The absence of Vulko in "Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom" is a bittersweet development. On the one hand, it's disappointing to miss Willem Dafoe's captivating performance as Arthur Curry's mentor. However, the in-universe explanation for Vulko's passing highlights the dire consequences of human pollution on the marine environment. This serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need to protect our oceans.

Additionally, the expanded role of Nicole Kidman's Atlanna as Aquaman's advisor is an intriguing twist. It's refreshing to see a female character take on such a pivotal role in the superhero genre, and Kidman's proven acting abilities promise a nuanced and compelling portrayal. While it would have been ideal to have both Vulko and Atlanna in the film, the decision to focus on Atlanna's character opens up exciting possibilities for the future of the DCEU.