Today we’re learning that we came very, very close to having Keanu Reeves in the MCU. Word is that is he was actively courted for the role of Yon-Rogg in Captain Marvel, with Charles Murphy of That Hashtag Show reporting that he was all set to take the part only for him to realize it’d create a scheduling conflict with John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum.
The John Wick films have been something of a passion project for Reeves, so it’s understandable that he didn’t want to put the third outing’s production in jeopardy. Plus, while the part of Yon-Rogg could be played by a variety of other actors, there’s only one John Wick. In the end, Marvel “moved SUPER QUICK” on getting Jude Law for the part and we’ll see the result of their labors very shortly.
Personally, I’ve always been a fan of Reeves (I even think criticism of his performance in Bram Stoker’s Dracula is undeserved – though his accent is admittedly terrible), so I’d love to see him take a role in the MCU. He’s indicated in the past that he’d like to do some superhero work, too, and his martial arts and stunt background should make him a good candidate for a variety of parts.
Of course, the closest he’s gotten to superheroes in the past has been the lead in Constantine, but let’s face it, in the Matrix sequels, Neo may as well have been a superhero. Looking ahead, I think he’d be an interesting choice for Wolverine or even perhaps Batman, but time will tell if anything ultimately happens in that regard.
Still, while he might not be turning up in the MCU anytime soon, John Wick 3 looks like it’ll be a more than worthy sequel. The first trailer was absolutely excellent, making it appear like the logical conclusion to the character’s bloody journey. Plus, reuniting Lawrence Fishburne and Keanu Reeves on screen is a really neat idea and should ensure that fans head to theaters to check out the film when it arrives on May 17th. Captain Marvel, meanwhile, will be with us on March 8th.
