John Malkovich Spills the Tea on Turning Down Marvel for Cash!
John Malkovich, the eccentric and talented thespian known for films like *Con Air* and *Being John Malkovich*, has finally lifted the veil on why he shunned earlier opportunities in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU)—and you might just guess it: it was all about the green. Chatting with GQ, Malkovich didn’t mince words, emphatically stating, “If you’re going to hang from a crane in front of a green screen for six months, pay me.” Because, honestly, it’s not just the CGI and special effects that take a toll; it’s the physical and emotional weight of long hours on set.
Malkovich made headlines recently for his role in the upcoming *Fantastic Four: First Steps*, a movie set during the ’60s space race featuring a throwback vibe. He’s reportedly playing Ivan Kragoff, aka Red Ghost, a character who’s as ambitious as he is creepy—having replicated the accident that granted our favorite heroes their powers. But before this latest adventure, Malkovich was dishing out the hard truth: he turned down superhero roles simply because the paychecks didn’t reflect the intensity of the work. “I didn’t like the deals they made, at all,” he said, insinuating that previous offers didn’t meet the physical and artistic demands of such grueling shoots.
While there’s a persistent debate about superhero flicks ‘dumbing down’ cinema, Malkovich doesn’t seem to buy into that narrative. He insisted his choices had less to do with artistic integrity and more to do with fair compensation for hefty work commitments. “If you don’t want to pay me, then I don’t want to do it,” he added, hinting at his preference for stage work and directing as far more fulfilling options—vocational decisions that echo the sentiments of other established actors who prioritize creativity over cash.
The *Fantastic Four* reboot, which is drawing a buzz with its star-studded lineup—including Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, and Julia Garner—is set to land in theaters on July 25. With its retro-futuristic flair and battle against the ferocious Galactus, it’s already generating chatter among comic book fans and movie aficionados alike. Malkovich’s cameo is a source of speculation among fans, many of whom have already made connections between his brief teaser appearance and his forthcoming villainous role. Will his portrayal of Red Ghost be a mind-bending twist in the MCU? Only time will tell, but it seems safe to say he’s finally getting the pay he deserves!
Sources: Celebrity Storm Wire and GQ, Variety, Collider
