Stalh23's Celebrity Gossip: Jon Favreau Won't Direct 'Iron Man 3'

Thursday, December 16, 2010

Jon Favreau Won't Direct 'Iron Man 3'

Marvel is in search of a new director for third installment of the comic book franchise.
By Kara Warner

Jon Favreau on the set of "Iron Man 2"
Photo: Merrick Morton/Paramount

On a day when the movie industry was focused on the Golden Globe nominations, just like in the movies, Hollywood got a few surprise twists. First, Ryan Reynolds confirmed to MTV News that he and wife Scarlett Johansson are splitting. And now, word is that Jon Favreau will not return to direct "Iron Man 3."

According to New York Magazine's Vulture blog, Favreau informed Marvel Studios as recently as Monday night that he would not direct the third film in the blockbuster franchise. The news is shocking considering the massive box-office success and popularity of "Iron Man" and "Iron Man 2."

On Tuesday evening (December 14), Favreau hit Twitter to confirm the reports. "It's true, I'm directing Magic Kingdom, not Iron Man 3," he tweeted. "I've had a great run with Marvel and wish them the best."

With few details having been made public, we can only speculate about what might have led Favreau to drop out, aside from his "Magic Kingdom" responsibilities.. MTV News spoke to the director just last month, and he seemed uncertain about plans for the third film, particularly with regard to a story line and his impression that Marvel was preoccupied with "The Avengers" movie.

"In theory, 'Iron Man 3' is going to be a sequel or continuation of 'Thor,' 'Hulk,' 'Captain America' and 'Avengers,' " Favreau said. "This whole world ... I have no idea what it is. I don't think they do either, from conversations I've had with those guys.

"Honestly, right now 'Captain America' and 'Thor' are their big priorities," he continued. "And you learn things by shooting and making movies. The script is one thing, but when you actually see what you land on at the editing room — especially with Marvel where they film, cut, film some more and shape the film — you really learn as you go."

"Iron Man 3" is currently scheduled for a May 13, 2013, release. New York Magazine reported that Marvel began their search for Favreau's replacement on Monday night.

What do you think of Favreau parting ways with "Iron Man 3"? Tell us in the comments!

Check out everything we've got on "Iron Man 2."

For breaking news and previews of the latest comic book movies — updated around the clock — visit SplashPage.MTV.com.

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