Why Did Joaquin Phoenix Say No To Doctor Strange?

Hollywood Oscar-winning actor Joaquin Phoenix was to play the MCU's Doctor Strange before Benedict Cumberbatch.

Joaquin Phoenix is one of the Hollywood actors who turned down a role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He went on to portray the Joker in the DC movies, and the superhero fandom was thrilled, but Faith had other intentions. But because he turned down the part of Doctor Strange in the MCU, Marvel was forced to alter its hiring procedures. Here is the whole story of what actually happened during the hiring process.

Just imagine if Joker actor Joaquin joined the MCU as the Supreme Magician. As much as this question excited us, it was a possibility up until Marvel and Joaquin had a disagreement over mutual grounds. Due to the actor’s refusal to commit to the project’s multi-film pact and substantial publicity obligations, Benedict Cumberbatch was cast in the lead role as Stephen Strange, a haughty neurosurgeon who evolved into a master of the mystic arts.

In an interview with The Direct, Marvel Studios’ former production lead attorney Paul Sarker explained how Joaquin Phoenix’s Doctor Strange rejection prompted Kevin Feige to alter the hiring procedure and contract for the actors taking on the role. Joaquin was unable to participate in the Infinity Saga, which had an impact on the MCU’s hiring procedure.

As events unfold, it also affords Marvel its own flexibility because a short-term arrangement can be made if fans adore a certain actor or actress. The talent was inspired to sign up for other Marvel productions after seeing the good response from the audiences.

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