Dropped by Marvel for Michael Keaton: John Leguizamo Slams Studio

Actor John Leguizamo has criticized Sony and Marvel after losing a nearly finalized role as the villain Adrian Toomes, also known as the Vulture, in the 2017 film Spider-Man: Homecoming. allocine.fr reported that the 66-year-old performer was in advanced contract negotiations for the part before the studio changed direction to secure Michael Keaton for the character. Leguizamo detailed the canceled casting during an appearance on The Hollywood Reporter podcast Awards Chatter.

The role ultimately went to Keaton after studio executives intervened late in the casting process.

“Ils m’avaient proposé Spider-Man, le Vautour, et puis la directrice du studio m’a appelé : Oh, John, c’est vraiment terrible. On avait déjà négocié. On s’était mis d’accord sur les conditions. Je n’avais pas signé de contrat, mais on s’était entendus sur les conditions. Les négociations étaient déjà bien avancées”John Leguizamo

Leguizamo stated that the studio executive told him Keaton wanted the part again. Despite having reached an agreement on terms, the deal was dropped without a signed contract. The actor recalled his frustration with the abrupt reversal, noting that he chose not to pursue legal action despite his initial anger over the outcome.

Leguizamo Decides Against Suing over Discarded Role

Leguizamo discussed the discarded agreement during his interview on Awards Chatter. He noted that while he considered legal options, he ultimately decided against filing a lawsuit.

“Et elle m’a dit : On aimerait récupérer le rôle. Michael Keaton le veut à nouveau. Et moi, j’étais là : Mais putain, c’est quoi ce bordel ? Je n’avais jamais entendu parler d’un truc aussi dingue. J’aurais pu porter plainte, mais mes agents sont tous des lâches”John Leguizamo

The actor explained that pursuing litigation could have negatively impacted his career prospects in the industry. Rather than dwell on the lost project, Leguizamo turned his focus toward creating independent work. His extensive filmography spans more than 160 movies and television series, including roles in Super Mario Bros., Carlito’s Way, Romeo + Juliet, and Summer of Sam, alongside voice work as Sid in the Ice Age franchise.