The Walt Disney Company seems to be a little more cautious in its approach to handling controversial actors. Rising Marvel villain star Jonathan Majors is heading to trial for alleged domestic abuse charges, but the company has yet to distance itself from him completely.
While fans speculated whether he would be replaced as Kang the Conqueror, recent reveals have shown otherwise. During a similar case, the entertainment giant notoriously jumped the gun and wrecked its relationship with Pirates of the Caribbean star Johnny Depp. However, Disney is likely to stick with Majors until a verdict is made in the case.
Multiple Disney Projects Involving Jonathan Majors
During the Walt Disney Company Q3 2023 Earnings Call, a list of theatrical releases coming in the near future was provided. The list shows Searchlight Pictures’ Magazine Dreams, starring Jonathan Majors, as still releasing on December 8. Magazine Dreams is a drama film about an amateur bodybuilder who dreams of becoming a professional. The film follows Killian Maddox (Jonathan Majors), a young man who is determined to achieve his dream in spite of challenges.
Majors is also scheduled to reprise his role as Kang the Conqueror in the second season of Marvel’s widely acclaimed Disney+ series Loki. This has been confirmed by the latest trailer for the season. Furthermore, Marvel has made no inclinations that they are replacing the controversial actor in his growing role within the Multiverse saga.
A Different Approach From Johnny Depp
These two projects basically confirm that Disney is not backing away from Majors. This measured stance slightly differs from Disney’s handling of high-profile controversies, notably the silent separation from actor Johnny Depp during a domestic violence legal battle with his former spouse, Amber Heard.
While Depp eventually emerged victorious in the courtroom, the fallout from the episode had a lasting impact on both Depp’s relationship with the studio and his future as Captain Jack Sparrow in the iconic Pirates of the Caribbean franchise. However, unlike the previous situation, Disney’s current approach appears more watchful, refraining from making definitive statements about Majors’ future with the company.
This tactful stance becomes even more notable in light of the controversies that have enveloped Majors. Last year, the actor was arrested in New York City on charges of strangulation, assault, and harassment stemming from an alleged domestic dispute with his girlfriend. Moreover, multiple women have reportedly accused him of emotional abuse since then. Majors has fervently denied all allegations, maintaining his innocence throughout.
It’s important to emphasize that Jonathan Majors maintains his presumption of innocence until proven guilty. The ongoing legal process will ultimately determine the resolution of the charges he faces. Disney’s decision to continue its creative partnerships with Majors shows that the company is being a little more careful this time and not jumping to conclusions.
