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Tycoon Actor C361 Declining
🕑 Added 2024-09-27 04:23:00 +0000 UTCLucas looked at Kevin, his eyebrow raised slightly. "How so? Why do you guys think I fit the role of Deadpool at all?"
Kevin chuckled, leaning back in his chair. "We've seen your acting, Lucas. You're really great, and we think you can portray Wade Wilson very well, especially before he became Deadpool." He paused, a hint of amusement in his eyes. "Plus, we've reviewed your interviews and behind-the-scenes footage from other films. Your sense of humor matches Wade Wilson's pretty closely."
Lucas couldn't help but laugh. "It's not just because my films tend to do well at the box office, right?"
Kevin's smile widened, a mix of surprise and approval in his expression. "Didn't know you were aware of that. I thought you'd be too humble to mention your box office success." After a soft laugh, he added, "But you're right. Your track record of successful films is definitely a factor in why we've put you at the top of our list for the role."
Lucas adopted a thoughtful expression. "Honestly, I've read Deadpool comics before, and I'm definitely interested in playing the role. But there are other actors out there who I think could do it justice too. Like Ryan Reynolds, for instance, or maybe even Jim Carrey."
Kevin nodded, acknowledging Lucas's point. "Actually, when Fox still owned the rights to Deadpool, Ryan Reynolds was involved in the project. He even played a version of Wade Wilson in X-Men Origins: Wolverine, though fans weren't too happy with how the character was portrayed. Reynolds has been pushing for a proper Deadpool movie for years. But..."
Lucas leaned forward, intrigued. "But? I'm sensing there's more to this story."
Kevin sighed, his expression turning slightly more serious. "You're right. We did consider Reynolds. He's passionate about the character and has that quick wit Deadpool is known for. But..." He paused, choosing his words carefully. "Right now, Reynolds doesn't have the same box office draw you do. His last few films haven't performed as well as the studio would like for a potential franchise starter."
"Besides, we're looking to integrate Deadpool into the larger MCU. We need someone who can not only carry their own franchise but also mesh well with our existing roster of heroes. Your versatility as an actor and your ability to balance drama and comedy make you our top choice."
Lucas nodded slowly, processing this information. "I see. So it's not just about Deadpool as a standalone character, but how he fits into the bigger picture."
Kevin smiled, relieved that Lucas understood. "Yes. We believe you have the range to portray Wade Wilson's tragic backstory, his humor, and his heroic moments. Besides, your existing fan base and critical acclaim could help bring in viewers who might not typically watch superhero films."
Lucas leaned back in his chair, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. After a moment, he asked, "What's the filming schedule looking like?"
Kevin outlined the proposed timeline, his excitement evident in his voice. As he finished, Lucas's expression turned apologetic.
"I hate to say this, Kevin, but I'm going to be pretty tied up during that time frame. I've got some prior commitments that I can't really shift around."
Kevin's face fell slightly, a mix of disappointment and concern evident. "We're actually trying to fast-track this production. Disney's pretty keen on getting Deadpool into the MCU as soon as possible."
Lucas nodded, understanding the situation. He offered a sympathetic smile. "I get it, and I really appreciate you considering me for this. Deadpool's an amazing character, and I would've loved to take on the challenge." He paused, then added, "I'm definitely open to future projects with Marvel or Disney, though. If something comes up down the line that fits my schedule better, I'd be more than happy to discuss it."
Kevin sighed, the disappointment clear in his voice, but he managed a professional smile. "I understand, Lucas. We'll definitely keep you in mind for future projects. Your talent are always welcome in the MCU."
As they stood to shake hands, Kevin added, "And who knows? Maybe our paths will cross again sooner than we think."
Lucas nodded, appreciating Kevin's graciousness. "I hope so. Thanks for the opportunity, Kevin. I'm looking forward to seeing what you do with Deadpool."
As Lucas left the office, Kevin couldn't help but feel a mixture of regret and respect. He'd missed out on his top choice for Deadpool, but he'd also witnessed firsthand the professionalism and integrity that had made Lucas Knight such a sought-after actor.
After a while of contemplation, Kevin's phone rang. Glancing at the caller ID, he saw it was Bob Iger, Disney's CEO. He took a deep breath before answering.
"Bob, hello," Kevin greeted, trying to keep his tone upbeat.
"Kevin," Iger's voice came through, all business. "How did the meeting with Lucas Knight go?"
Kevin began to speak positively about Lucas, but Iger cut him off abruptly. "That's all well and good, Kevin, but I only care about one thing. Is he in or not?"
Kevin hesitated, his stomach tightening. "Well, about that... Lucas had to decline due to scheduling conflicts."
The line went silent. The pause seemed to stretch on for an eternity, the tension palpable even through the phone.
Finally, Iger spoke, his voice clipped. "I see. Keep me updated on your next steps." Without waiting for a response, he ended the call.
Kevin lowered the phone slowly, a sinking feeling in his stomach. He didn't need to be a mind reader to know that Iger was far from pleased. The curt response and abrupt end to the call spoke volumes.
***
In Disney's office, Bob Iger had just finished his call with Kevin. His furrowed brow and tense jaw spoke volumes about his mood.
John Lasseter, noticing Bob's demeanor, approached cautiously. "I take it the meeting didn't go as planned?"
Bob shook his head, his frustration evident. "Lucas declined Deadpool."
John raised an eyebrow. "So what now? Are we settling for Ryan Reynolds?"
Bob leaned back in his chair, contemplating. "I really wanted Lucas for this role. The investors felt more confident with him on board. He's Hollywood's new golden boy, after all." He chuckled dryly. "They were even okay with giving him a percentage of the box office and a hefty upfront payment. Can you believe it? But what choice do we have now? Reynolds might be our only option."
John nodded, then asked, "What about Big Hero 6? Doesn't that need Lucas for voice acting?"
Bob waved his hand dismissively. "HR's already in talks with Lucas's manager about that. It's under control."
"Do we really need Lucas to voice act in our animation? It's quite expensive," John pointed out.
Bob leaned forward, his eyes gleaming with determination. "It's worth it. Lucas will likely boost the box office numbers. Plus, it's a chance to develop a relationship with him, similar to what Warner Bros. is doing. From what we've heard, he played a DC villain in a standalone movie for them. If we play our cards right, Lucas might be more open to future role offers from us."
John nodded, understanding the long-term strategy. "Makes sense."
***
Lucas left the Marvel building, immediately pulling out his phone to call Neil.
"Hey Neil, just got out of the meeting with Disney. I turned down their big project."
"What?" Neil's surprise was evident even through the phone. "Why'd you do that?"
Lucas sighed, "Schedule conflicts, mainly. Plus, I think there are other actors out there who could play the role better."
Neil's voice took on a concerned tone, "Is there any chance they could adjust the schedule to fit you in?"
Lucas chuckled, "Neil, it's Disney. They want this project moving fast. Production development is already underway."
"Is that so?" Neil sighed, clearly disappointed.
As they continued talking, Lucas couldn't help but reflect on his true reasons for turning down the role.
The truth was, Lucas felt a twinge of guilt at the thought of taking the role from Ryan Reynolds. He knew Ryan had been preparing for and pushing to play Deadpool for years. It just didn't sit right with him to swoop in and take that opportunity away.
Sure, Lucas might do a great job with the role, maybe even better than Ryan in some ways. But was it worth it to make the actor's hard work go down the drain? Lucas didn't think so.
Two days later, Lucas found himself on the set of Modern Family, ready to shoot for the sixth season of the hit series.
As he walked onto the set, he spotted Ariel Winter chatting with some of the crew members. Lucas couldn't help but smile, remembering the recent news about Ariel finally gaining emancipation from her mother's guardianship. It had been a long and difficult journey for the young actress, filled with court battles and public scrutiny.
As Lucas stepped on the set, he was greeted warmly by the cast and showrunners. He exchanged quick hellos and how-are-yous with everyone, the familiarity of the Modern Family set washing over him.
He made a point to check in with Ariel, offering her a supportive smile. "Hey, how are you holding up?" he asked quietly.
Ariel's eyes brightened. "I'm doing better, thanks. It means a lot that you asked."
Lucas nodded, giving her a reassuring pat on the shoulder before moving on to catch up briefly with his other co-stars. They fell into easy banter, swapping stories about their time off and joking about what the new season might bring for their characters.
Before long, the director called everyone to their positions, and the familiar rhythm of filming took over.
