Robert Pattinson reveals he met with Marvel Studios to discuss a possible role, but decided he didn’t want to jump to another franchise so soon after Twilight. Pattinson, of course, rose to stardom portraying Edward Cullen in the Twilight films, becoming an international heartthrob in the process. When that series concluded in 2012, Pattinson went down a very different path, working with a variety of indie directors on films such as Good Time and The Lost City of Z. These roles completely altered his critical standing, proving that he was much more than a sparkly vampire.

Coincidentally, the year Twilight ended, the Marvel Cinematic Universe essentially transformed into the powerhouse it is today, with the original Avengers movie earning positive reviews and breaking box office records. Marvel’s only grown in stature and pedigree since then, recruiting a number of talented actors and actresses to play in their sandbox. Pattinson, who’s now officially the new Batman, never got involved with the franchise, but he did sit down with Marvel many years ago.

A Pattinson profile in Variety mentions an “informational meeting” the actor had with Marvel when Guardians of the Galaxy was coming together. Obviously, Pattinson decided that world wasn’t for him:

As successful and beloved the MCU is, working in the shared universe isn’t for everyone. Marvel actors typically sign multi-picture contracts and have to embark on long and grueling press tours to promote projects. That kind of schedule can limit other opportunities for actors; since 2012, Robert Downey, Jr. has appeared in only two movies that aren’t part of the MCU. Pattinson has developed a diverse portfolio for himself during that same period. It’s understandable why he’d opt for a different route, taking on smaller projects that allow him to flex his acting muscles and showcase his range. He’s now making a jump back to high-profile fare, starring in The Batman and Christopher Nolan’s Tenet, but that’s on his terms and films that directly appeal to his sensibilities. Coincidentally, it’s not too dissimilar from Joaquin Phoenix passing on Doctor Strange years ago, but agreeing to Joker.

“I don’t know what I would really be chasing. The idea of trying that transition after Twilight, I never saw a road in that direction.”

What isn’t revealed is what role Pattinson might have been considered for. Since the timeline points to the original Guardians, it’s possible Marvel was looking at him for Star-Lord. Of course, since this was just an informational meeting, it might have been more general in nature, gauging Pattinson’s interest in joining the franchise. And with Pattinson now Batman, it would appear that ship has sailed. Though perhaps one day the right Marvel project will come across Pattinson’s desk and he’ll have a change of heart.

More: Why Are Love Stories the Worst Part of Any Batman Movie?

Source: Variety

  • Black Widow Release Date: 2021-07-09 The Eternals Release Date: 2021-11-05 Shang Chi Release Date: 2021-09-03 Doctor Strange 2 Release Date: 2022-05-06 Thor: Love and Thunder Release Date: 2022-07-08 Black Panther: Wakanda Forever Release Date: 2022-11-11