The slow death of the Marvel cinematic universe is the only positive development happening in the world right now, arguably even within our lifetimes – and by dropping out of forthcoming film Thunderbolts, Ayo Edebiri has driven another nail into the coffin. Whether this was part of a secret plan to take down the franchise or not, we should thank her from the bottom of our hearts.
Edebiri dropping out is officially due to “scheduling conflicts”, but I have consulted my crystal ball and discovered the real explanation: starring in a Marvel film is no longer a good career move for a hyped young talent (if it ever was.) Several former Marvel actors have said that working on these films was an unrewarding and unpleasant experience, and their cultural relevance is fading all the time. Last year, in particular, Disney suffered a series of dramatic superhero flops.
In contrast, Edebiri is on an incredible run right now, having recently won an Emmy, a Golden Globe and Critic’s Choice Award in quick succession. She is widely beloved, and her career is going from strength to strength. Why would she waste her time on some C-grade superhero film that is almost inevitably going to bomb at the box office and be slated by the critics? I’m sorry Marvel, but you simply don’t deserve her! Maybe Amy Schumer would be a little more your speed...
Even if the “scheduling conflicts” explanation is true, the fact she wouldn’t prioritise doing the film is a healthy sign for cinema culture, and further proof that the era of superhero dominance is coming to an end.