How Jason Momoa Almost Joined The MCU

In the vast universe of cinematic storytelling, few franchises have captured the imagination of audiences quite like the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). With its rich tapestry of characters, intricate plots, and stunning visuals, the MCU has become a cultural phenomenon. However, behind the scenes, the journey to bring these characters to life is often filled with twists and turns, surprises, and near-misses. One such story is that of Jason Momoa, the charismatic actor known for his role as Khal Drogo in HBO’s “Game of Thrones,” and how he almost joined the MCU as Drax the Destroyer.

The tale begins in the early 2010s, a time when Marvel was gearing up for its ambitious project, “Guardians of the Galaxy.” The film was set to introduce a ragtag group of intergalactic misfits, and among them was Drax, a character with a complex backstory and a penchant for vengeance. Originally created in 1973, Drax the Destroyer was designed as a powerful warrior with a simple yet distinct look. However, as the MCU evolved, so did the need for a more modern interpretation of the character.

Charlie Wen, the former head of visual development at Marvel Studios, played a pivotal role in reimagining Drax for the big screen. Wen had a background in character design, having previously worked on the iconic video game character Kratos from the “God of War” franchise. As he embarked on the task of adapting Drax, he faced the challenge of creating a character that would resonate with audiences while also steering clear of the original comic book design, which was often described as “unbearably ridiculous” and “monumentally goofy.”

Wen’s journey began with a deep dive into Drax’s comic book history. He examined the character’s evolution over the years, noting the drastic changes in design and personality. The original Drax, with his purple tights and skull accessories, was a far cry from the complex character that audiences would come to know in the MCU. Wen’s goal was to create a version of Drax that was not only visually striking but also emotionally resonant.

As Wen and his team worked on the character’s design, the casting directors were on the lookout for the perfect actor to bring Drax to life. Enter Jason Momoa, an actor who had recently gained fame for his portrayal of Khal Drogo. Momoa’s imposing physique, combined with his natural charisma, made him a strong contender for the role. The casting team was intrigued by his screen test, which showcased his ability to embody the character’s physicality and intensity.

Momoa’s audition was nothing short of impressive. He demonstrated his fighting skills and brought a unique energy to the character. Wen, who had created concept art depicting Momoa as Drax, was excited about the possibility of seeing the actor in the role. The artwork featured a leaner version of Drax, moving away from the Kratos-like design and embracing a more grounded and relatable interpretation.

However, as the casting process continued, it became clear that Momoa’s portrayal, while compelling, might not fully capture the essence of Drax. The casting directors were also considering Dave Bautista, a former professional wrestler who had a different approach to the character. Bautista’s audition brought a level of humor and depth that resonated with the creative team. They felt that he could push the character in ways that Momoa’s portrayal might not.

In a candid interview, Wen reflected on the casting decision, acknowledging that while Momoa had the look and the moves, Bautista brought something unique to the role. “In a way, it didn’t push that character the way that Bautista did,” he noted. “With Momoa, it felt like the Game of Thrones character that he played. He has a great face for it, but ultimately, Bautista really took that role.”

Momoa himself seemed to understand the reasoning behind the decision. In a 2014 interview, he revealed that he ultimately turned down the role of Drax, stating, “I want my children to see their father happy. It’s not that it’s not a good role; it just wasn’t the right thing.” He reflected on his experience playing Ronon in “Stargate: Atlantis,” a character that shared similarities with Drax. “I’ve been there and done that,” he said. “You want to stretch.”

As the casting process concluded, Bautista was officially cast as Drax, and the rest, as they say, is history. The film “Guardians of the Galaxy” was released in 2014, and Bautista’s portrayal of Drax was met with widespread acclaim. He brought a unique blend of humor and vulnerability to the character, making Drax a fan favorite and solidifying his place in the MCU.

Meanwhile, Jason Momoa’s journey took a different turn. In 2018, he made waves as the titular character in “Aquaman,” a film that became a major success for the DC Extended Universe. Momoa’s portrayal of Aquaman was a stark contrast to the character he almost played in the MCU. He embraced the role with a sense of adventure and charisma, captivating audiences around the world.

Reflecting on the paths taken by both actors, it’s clear that the casting decisions made during the development of “Guardians of the Galaxy” had a profound impact on the MCU. Bautista’s Drax became a beloved character, while Momoa’s Aquaman carved out a niche in the superhero genre. Both actors brought their unique talents to their respective roles, and their journeys serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry.

In the years that followed, both actors continued to thrive in their careers. Bautista expanded his repertoire, taking on diverse roles in films such as “Blade Runner 2049” and “Dune,” while Momoa became a household name, starring in projects like “See” and “Sweet Girl.” Their journeys, though initially intertwined, ultimately led them down separate paths, each leaving an indelible mark on the world of cinema.

As fans of the MCU and superhero films, we often marvel at the characters that grace our screens. However, it’s essential to remember the stories behind the casting decisions, the auditions, and the creative processes that shape these beloved characters. The tale of Jason Momoa almost joining the MCU as Drax the Destroyer is a testament to the ever-evolving nature of storytelling and the serendipitous moments that can change the course of a career.

In conclusion, the story of Jason Momoa and his near-casting as Drax the Destroyer is a fascinating glimpse into the world of Hollywood casting. It highlights the complexities of character development, the importance of finding the right actor for the role, and the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry. While Momoa may not have donned the green skin of Drax, his journey as Aquaman has proven that sometimes, the paths we take lead us to even greater adventures. As fans, we can only imagine what might have been, but we can also celebrate the incredible journeys that both actors have embarked upon in the ever-expanding universe of superhero storytelling.