Guardians of the Galaxy star Zoe Saldana is ready to bid goodbye to Gamora whom she portrayed in the franchise since 2014. The epic badass heroine returned in James Gunn’s 2017 sequel and The Russo Brothers’ Avengers: Infinity War (2018). The actress reprised the role in 2019’s Avengers: Endgame as a time-displaced character and is now set to appear for the last time in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.
Gamora played a major role both in Guardians and Avengers movies, and Saldana feels it is now time to make her exit after a fruitful decade portraying the character.
Zoe Saldana Wants Marvel To Keep Gamora For Future Projects
In her interview with Total Film Magazine, Zoe Saldana reiterated that the third installment would be her final performance:
“I think the time has come for me to step down, and for the next generation to come forward. The one thing I would not want is for Gamora to go away. She’s been such an impactful character for fans, and especially female fans, and young female fans.”
That being said, the 44-year-old actress gives Marvel her blessing to recast Gamora in the future:
“I would love for Marvel to figure out a way to find that next generation of actors that can incarnate these characters, and give them this immortality that fans generationally keep coming back to.”
Saldana is grateful for the opportunity to work with Marvel Studios and the creative people behind the franchise:
“I signed up for one, and I got 10 years. Lucky me, man. I have no complaints. And I’m moving on with so much grace and gratitude in my heart.”
Created by Jim Starlin, Gamora first appeared in 1975’s Strange Tales #180. Her first live-action debut was in Gunn’s 2014 Guardians film. Since then, she has become one of the most significant characters in the entire MCU.
Saldana was not present in Disney+’s The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special, but she will reprise her role in Vol. 3 as a time-displaced Gamora. The actress is not the only one leaving the franchise, as Dave Bautista previously revealed he will no longer play Drax the Destroyer in the future.
Zoe Saldana Is Not Done With Superhero Movies
Despite leaving Gamora, the Avatar star is not closing her doors on making more comic book films. She expressed interest in working with Gunn again and might even appear in a DC movie if she ever receives a call.
“If [Gunn] were to call, I would have his back any day, because, you know, it would be fun. It’s always fun working with him… I think he’s going to do something really great there, and I’m excited.”
Whether Marvel Studios decides to keep Gamora for the future or not, Saldana’s portrayal of the heroine will always remain unparalleled.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 will also feature Chris Pratt, Karen Gillan, Pom Klementieff, Vin Diesel, Bradley Cooper, and Sean Gunn. Moreover, the franchise welcomes Will Poulter as Adam Warlock and Chukwudi Iwuji as the High Evolutionary.
The final installment will find the team still reeling from the loss of Gamora while they try to defend the universe from evil forces. Gunn also confirmed that it will showcase more of Rocket Raccoon’s past.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 arrives in theaters on May 5, 2023.
Source: Total Film Magazine
