Perhaps it’s due to COVID-19 shutting down the entire industry, including the studio’s own productions, or maybe there’s another reason, but like it or not, Marvel Studios has stayed mum about details regarding a new “Deadpool” film or the future of the “X-Men” franchise since the studio gained control of the properties last year. While it’s clear that the “X-Men” franchise will live to see another day, it’s less clear what the Disney-owned studio will do with a possible sequel in the foul-mouthed, very R-rated “Deadpool” series. And according to the character’s creator, Rob Liefeld, he’s fine with the idea of “Deadpool” going away in the future.
Speaking to Collider, Liefeld opened up about the possibility of a “Deadpool 3.” The sequel has been discussed quite a bit, even with star Ryan Reynolds saying that he’s talked with Marvel about moving ahead. But still, there’s no word on when it might happen and even if the “Deadpool” franchise can exist in a Disney-owned Marvel Cinematic Universe. Liefeld thinks the question is definitely more “if” and not “when.”
“You know what? There may not be another ‘Deadpool,’ and I’m fine,” he explained. “Because I have to live with the fact that I had two amazing experiences, two movies I’m extremely proud of, I love knowing everybody on those movies. I love Ryan [Reynolds], Josh [Brolin], Zazie [Beets], David [Leitch], Tim Miller. All of them. The work they did was fantabulous, those movies are here to stand the test of time. You know, but in the world we live in, nothing is guaranteed. And it takes a lot to make movies. And post-quarantine, it’s weird.”
He does bring up the COVID-19 of it all. It’s assumed that Marvel Studios will soon restart production on its various TV series and blockbuster films, after everything was halted due to the pandemic. But we’re not sure how filming will happen, given the new restrictions with social distancing and whatnot. Can “Deadpool” or other superhero films work within this new framework? And in the case of Liefeld’s creation, even if it can happen, it still has an uphill battle given the reasons listed above.
Liefeld also shared his shock about the canceled “Deadpool” cartoon that was written and created by Donald Glover. The series seemed destined to move ahead on FX, but the show was quickly canceled and Glove spoke out about his unhappiness with the decision. Liefeld is also surprised by the lack of a “Deadpool” cartoon, especially given the character’s more cartoon-y characteristics.
“What I don’t really understand is, given the audience, why isn’t there a ‘Deadpool’ cartoon yet? Like, I don’t understand that. Right? … [‘Deadpool’s’ cancellation] was a gut punch,” he said.
READ MORE: Rob Liefeld Says Marvel Will Still Make A ‘Deadpool’ Animated Series
For now, the future of the “Deadpool” film and TV brand seems to be uncertain. Will he continue the story set forth in the previous films or will Marvel Studios reboot him in the MCU? Will Ryan Reynolds return in the lead role or is the character destined to only have two films for the foreseeable future? Hopefully, we find out more news soon because fans are growing anxious.