‘Suicide Squad’ Sequel Cuts Deadshot as Idris Elba Takes on New Character

Elba was previously set to replace Will Smith as DC character

Idris Elba Tux Golden Globes Stay Frosty Warner Bros
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Although Idris Elba was supposed to replace Will Smith as Deadshot in James Gunn’s “The Suicide Squad,” the actor will now play another character as Deadshot will no longer be featured in the movie.

Last month, it was reported that Elba would take on the role after Smith exited the project due to scheduling conflicts. He is set to begin shooting the “Bright” sequel for Netflix in July, according to an individual with knowledge of the projects, while Warner Bros. is set to begin production on the “Suicide Squad” sequel in September.

Warner Bros. had no comment.

Former “Guardians of the Galaxy” director James Gunn was brought on board to helm the project. He also wrote the script and will have a completely new take on the property, in which DC supervillains are recruited by the government to carry out secret missions too dirty for the likes of Superman and Batman.

“The Suicide Squad,” being produced by Peter Safran and Charles Roven, is expected to hit theaters on August 6, 2021.

Margot Robbie, Jai Courtney and Viola Davis will also return for the sequel.

Elba will next be seen playing the villain in “Fast & Furious” spinoff “Hobbs & Shaw” opposite Dwayne Johnson and Jason Statham. Elba will also be seen next month in the new Netflix comedy series, “Turn Up Charlie,” as a struggling British DJ trying to get his break in the music business.

Variety first reported the news that Deadshot would be cut and Elba would assume a different role.

 

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