It was announced on Wednesday that Shailene Woodley – initially slated to appear as the iconic Mary Jane in “The Amazing Spider-Man 2” – would not be seen in the upcoming sequel, as director Marc Webb had decided to bump her character’s introduction to the third film.
However, according to multiple reports, Sony Studios may be looking to recast the role of Mary Jane altogether – and Shailene’s already filmed scenes may never make it to the screen.
A person close to the project told The Wrap that the 21-year-old “Descendants” star “will likely be busy with the sequels to her upcoming sci-fi movie ‘Divergent’ and may not be available.”
Additionally, THR stated it is likely that the actress “will not return” and the role will be recast.
In a statement to Entertainment Weekly, Shailene said she’s disappointed about the news.
“Of course I’m bummed, but I am a firm believer in everything happening for a specific reason,” she told the mag. “MJ only appeared in a few scenes and I wouldn’t trade the experience of working with Andrew [Garfield] and Emma [Stone] for three days on set for the world.”
Adding, “Based on the proposed plot, I completely understand the need for holding off on introducing MJ until the next film.”
“The Amazing Spider-Man 2,” which is currently filming in New York City, is slated for theatrical release on May 2, 2014.
The third and fourth installment will hit theaters on June 10, 2016 and May 4, 2018.
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