Nathan Fillion, renowned for his role in “The Rookie” and beloved by sci-fi fans as Captain Malcolm Reynolds in “Firefly,” has become a stalwart figure in the superhero genre, albeit in a way fans might not have expected. His journey from being rumored to play Ant-Man to actually embodying Green Lantern in James Gunn’s upcoming DC Universe film reveals a series of fascinating twists and turns in his acting career.
From Rumor to Reality: Fillion’s Superhero Evolution
The connection between Nathan Fillion and superhero films has always been strong, spurred by his work with Joss Whedon on “Firefly.” When Whedon took the helm of “The Avengers,” speculation swirled that Fillion would be cast as Ant-Man, a role that ultimately went to Paul Rudd.
You know what, the internet is a vast wealth of information, 90% of it false. I’m working ten months out of the year doing a television program where I don’t get a lot of opportunities to sneak out after work and do other projects, so I’m kind of locked in.
Despite not landing the Ant-Man role, Fillion wasn’t deterred from the superhero scene. His admiration for superhero films was evident when he expressed his initial skepticism and eventual fondness for the Ant-Man character after seeing Paul Rudd’s portrayal.
When Ant-Man came out I thought, ‘This is really a lower-rung hero for comics.‘ That movie was spectacular. Boy, Paul Rudd? I like to think I’m a charming guy. That Paul Rudd makes me look like an idiot manchild, he’s so charming. It’s so neat to watch him.
Embracing the Lantern: Fillion’s New Superhero Mantle
It’s not just the MCU that has seen Fillion’s potential in superhero roles. His collaboration with James Gunn began in the 2012 film “Super” and continued through to “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” and “The Suicide Squad,” where he played T.D.K. These roles only deepened his ties to the superhero genre, leading to his latest and perhaps most significant role as Guy Gardner, also known as Green Lantern, in Gunn’s DC Universe. This role in the upcoming film “Superman” and the series “Lanterns” marks a full-circle moment for Fillion, showcasing his versatility and enduring appeal.
Future Ventures and Villainous Desires
Beyond his current commitments, Fillion harbors ambitions to explore more complex characters, particularly villains. He expressed a keen interest in villain roles, noting the vast opportunities in the superhero genre.
For every hero in the comics, there were at least 50 villains. Since all the heroes are already out there, I shared that I would happily play a supervillain character.
Conclusion: A Hero for All Seasons
Nathan Fillion’s journey through the superhero landscape illustrates a versatile actor who can pivot from rumored roles to definitive portrayals, capturing the hearts of fans across genres. As he steps into the light of the Green Lantern, his career promises to illuminate new paths, possibly even in the shadows of villainy. This transformation from a supposed Ant-Man to a celebrated Green Lantern underscores his dynamic adaptability and the unpredictable excitement of the superhero genre. Fans can eagerly anticipate his portrayal of Guy Gardner in “Superman” and the broader DC Universe under James Gunn’s visionary direction.