Last week it was reported that Will Smith would not be returning to reprise his role as Deadshot in the upcoming ‘Suicide Squad 2’ film. That doesn’t mean the character will be absent or killed off, as Idris Elba looks to fill the void left by the departure.
According to Variety, Idris Elba has met with the writer and director of the film, James Gunn, sometime last week. It would seem that the talks went very well. So well that Elba has begun talking with the studio regarding the replacement. There’s no official word on when filming will start. However, the scripted penned by James Gunn is ready and the studio is happy with it. Damn you, Disney.
As for why Will Smith opted out of the role, it looks like it’s just a matter of a scheduling conflict. In fact, Will Smith has gone on record stating that he enjoyed playing as Deadshot and would love standalone project in the future. Which would be interesting if that did happen, now that Idris Elba is filling that role now.
As for Idris Elba taking over the role, I like it. I feel he’s a solid replacement and is an accomplished actor. Oddly enough, despite the rumors that he was in the running to play as the next James Bond. Only to eventually distance himself from the role, but now take on the role as Deadshot. What can I say? Sometimes the stars align just right.
‘Suicide Squad 2’ is scheduled for an August 6, 2021, release date.