As a gamer who has followed Sebastian Stan‘s career since his early days, I can’t help but marvel at how his journey unfolded. Losing the Green Lantern role might have seemed like a crushing blow back then, but it turned out to be a blessing in disguise for both Stan and us, the fans.
Prior to Sebastian Stan’s popularity as Bucky Barnes (Winter Soldier) in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, where he will reappear in 2025’s “Thunderbolts”, he was contending for a different superhero role that could have significantly altered his career trajectory. Can you imagine it was Green Lantern? If you follow comic books and keep tabs on upcoming superhero films, you’re aware that the part eventually went to Ryan Reynolds. Yet, in a recent interview, the former “The Apprentice” contestant disclosed the rigorous audition process he experienced and the fierce competition he encountered.
In an open chat on Josh Horowitz’s podcast, Happy Sad Confused, Stan reminisced about his apprehension when auditioning for the role of Hal Jordan, a character who later became one of DC Comics’ popular superheroes. Although he had established himself in television and independent films, he acknowledges that he faced stiff competition from prominent Hollywood stars for the part. The contenders included Justin Timberlake, Jared Leto, and Ryan Reynolds, who eventually clinched the role. Reflecting on this, Stan referred to himself as a small fish swimming among big sharks.
I recall arriving, and it felt surreal, standing alongside Justin Timberlake, Jared Leto, Ryan Reynolds, and perhaps an additional individual. In that moment, I found myself thinking, “Oh dear! This can’t possibly be my luck – not a chance it’s happening for me at all.
Initially, the actor from “A Different Man” may have felt like an underdog when he didn’t get the role, but he chose not to let rejection dictate his career path. In hindsight, he even considers losing that opportunity as a fortunate turn of events. Interestingly, despite Ryan Reynolds starring in it, the 2011 “Green Lantern” was met with harsh criticism from critics and is frequently labeled one of the worst films. However, it surprisingly topped the box office chart.
The flop of the movie didn’t derail Reynolds’ career; in fact, he publicly dislikes the film, but it undeniably didn’t help him either. On the other hand, Stan’s initial rejection opened doors for his future triumphs within the MCU, where he established a strong fanbase and found a place to truly shine.
Looking back, Sebastian Stan is content with not getting the chance for the Green Lantern role. As he reflects on his professional journey, he acknowledged that maybe taking on that part at that specific moment could have been too much pressure for him, more than he was equipped to handle. He put it this way:
While you were nearly there, it wouldn’t have occurred. In retrospect, I’m almost grateful it didn’t happen, as I’m unsure if I would have managed the intensity of attention some others have, you understand?
It’s quite possible that the role of Green Lantern wasn’t the ideal launchpad for the star known from Pam & Tommy, as it turned out to be a weighty responsibility. However, destiny had other ideas, guiding him towards his portrayal of Bucky Barnes in Captain America: The First Avenger. If you follow the Marvel movies sequentially, you’ll see that he reprised this role numerous times. In the future, he is set to put on those super soldier boots once more for Thunderbolts, scheduled to premiere in 2025.
Born in Romania, the actor has firmly established himself as a constant presence in Hollywood, earning affection from fans for his intricate portrayal of Bucky. He is admired for his readiness to delve into varied roles, spanning from intense psychological thrillers such as “Fresh” to biographical dramas like “I, Tonya”. Sebastian Stan’s transformation of the Winter Soldier character from a tragic figure to a hesitant hero with profound emotional wounds has made him one of the most multidimensional and captivating performers within the Marvel franchise.
Despite following distinct paths as superheroes, both Stan and Reynolds have found stable footing in their respective roles. Fans can enjoy them in their Marvel Cinematic Universe appearances by streaming the Captain America films and Deadpool via a Disney+ membership.
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2024-10-19 19:38