Amanda Seyfried recently opened up about her surprising reasons for declining a role in the blockbuster Marvel film Guardians of the Galaxy.
During the Thursday, March 20, episode of the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Seyfried reflected on her hesitation to take on the role of Gamora in the original 2014 film, citing concerns about her career and the film’s potential reception.
Seyfried admitted that she feared the film might not succeed, which influenced her decision to step away from the project. “Being a part of the first Marvel movie that bombs ain’t good for your career,” Seyfried shared candidly. “I thought that because this was about a talking tree and a talking raccoon that it was gonna be Marvel’s first bomb and that Chris Pratt and I would never work again. I was wrong.”
Beyond her career concerns, Seyfried also considered the demanding aspects of the role. The extensive makeup process required to transform into the green-skinned Gamora was a daunting prospect. Additionally, the commitment of shooting in London for six months each year made the decision even more challenging for Seyfried. Another significant factor was a competing movie offer that she felt drawn to.
“There was another movie that I really wanted to do with Seth MacFarlane called A Million Ways to Die in the West,” Seyfried revealed. “It felt like a really good opportunity.” While the Marvel film went on to be a massive success, earning $772 million worldwide, Seyfried remains confident in her choice. “I love that I was able to stay with my gut,” she said.
Despite her decision, Seyfried harbors no regrets and is genuinely happy for Chris Pratt and Zoe Saldana, who ultimately took on the lead roles of Star-Lord and Gamora. Guardians of the Galaxy became a cornerstone of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, with Saldana reprising her role in multiple films, including Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017), Avengers: Infinity War (2018), Avengers: Endgame (2019), and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023).
Seyfried’s career has continued to flourish, and she has proven time and again that following her instincts has led her to success. Her candid reflection highlights the difficult choices actors face and how even major roles can be turned down for deeply personal and professional reasons.