Last week it was announced that Don Cheadle was replacing Terance Howard as Rhodey (aka War Machine) in the upcoming Iron Man 2. Today Marvel put out a press release announcing that they also have plans for Rhodey in the Avengers movie as well.
I was THRILLED when I heard that Cheadle was taking over the role of Rhodey. Don’t get me wrong, I have no problem with the job Howard did in Iron Man and wouldn’t have minded seeing him return… but when you can get an even better actor, you do it. And let’s face it, Howard’s role in the first movie was small to say the least. Switching actors in that role won’t be a problem whatsoever (and for those that claim it does… are you saying The Dark Knight was ruined because the changed actresses for Rachel? Yeah… I didn’t think so).
It was also made clear that Marvel have a bigger role planned for War Machine than in the first film when they said:
“We are very excited about working with the extraordinarily talented Don Cheadle as we expand the role of Rhodey in Iron Man 2. It has already become apparent as we prep the movie for production, that the dynamic between Robert and Don will take Iron Man 2 to new heights,” said Kevin Feige, President of Marvel Studios.
I’m guessing this increased role probably had SOMETHING to do with the switch. Well… that an money (money always does). I think this is great news and bodes very well for the Marvel universe on screen.
