John Leguizamo Reflects on MCU Snub & Missing Out on Iconic Villain Role: “I Think Another Actor Would’ve Sued”

John Leguizamo stands out as one of Hollywood’s most prominent Latino figures, known not only for his acting prowess but also for his vocal advocacy against injustices faced by himself, his peers, and the broader Latino community in the industry. He’s been a staunch critic of the underrepresentation of Latinos in Hollywood and is unafraid to speak out on the issue.

Yet, before carving this reputation, Leguizamo was a fixture in some of cinema’s biggest franchises. From ‘Carlito’s Way’ to ‘To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar,’ ‘Romeo + Juliet,’ the ‘Ice Age’ series, ‘The Kick-Ass’ saga, and even ‘John Wick,’ his presence has been felt across diverse cinematic landscapes. However, did you know he was also on the verge of portraying the Vulture in ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’?

As per Leguizamo’s interview with ComicBook, he was not only offered but also negotiated for the part of Vulture in the acclaimed ‘Spider-Man’ film. However, at the eleventh hour, Keaton had a change of heart and reclaimed the role, leaving John feeling devastated and utterly disappointed.

I was supposed to be the Vulture. We had negotiated, and I was about to play him, and they said that Michael Keaton wanted it back, and they asked me if I would give it up. I said, ‘Well, okay, I guess.’ They said, ‘No, we’ll work with you again, we’re gonna…’

In a recent conversation with Business Insider, Leguizamo revisited the issue, suggesting that he likely had grounds to take legal action against Marvel. He emphasized that the terms had been negotiated, and the role wasn’t just a verbal promise but a finalized agreement prior to Keaton’s return.

I didn’t understand it. I think another actor would’ve sued because we had agreed on terms. We went through a huge negotiation period, and we had agreed on terms. I hadn’t signed a contract, but we had agreed. I think those are sueable terms.

And then the head of the studio called me up and said, “This is terrible. I feel horrible, and would you give it up?” And I did. I felt like, if you didn’t want me, I don’t want to be there either, you know what I mean?

My grandma was like, “If they don’t want you at a party, don’t go.” So I was like, you don’t want me at the party. I don’t want to be there. I felt dissed and diminished, so I didn’t really want to be a part of it.

Though disappointed about losing the role, he admitted he’d be open to returning to the franchise. Interestingly, he was offered a different role but ultimately turned it down.

I would if I was offered The Riddler or some part like that. I would go back to other franchises. I mean, if you make it up to me. But then they offered me some tiny scientist in the movie. I was like, “No thank you. Thank you, but no.”

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