Gunn: Elba Nearly Played Deadshot in The Suicide Squad
Director James Gunn says Idris Elba passed on Deadshot after fan backlash, and confirms The Suicide Squad is the first canon DCU film.
James Gunn said Idris Elba was originally considered for the role of Deadshot in The Suicide Squad, according to comingsoon.net. Elba ultimately played Bloodsport in the 2021 film.
Gunn said Elba declined the Deadshot part after a negative reaction from Will Smith's fans on social media. Smith had played Deadshot in the earlier Suicide Squad film.
The director then considered casting Elba as Deathstroke instead. According to Gunn, Joe Manganiello — who had already played Deathstroke in the DCEU — called him upset about the idea.
Gunn also said he would like Elba to return as Bloodsport or as another character, and that Jai Courtney will return in a different role than Captain Boomerang.
DCU canon
Gunn said The Suicide Squad is the first canon film in the DCU and can be watched on HBO Max. He is director of the film and co-CEO of DC Studios.
Quick answers
Why did Idris Elba not play Deadshot in The Suicide Squad?
James Gunn said Elba declined the role after a negative reaction from Will Smith's fans on social media.
Who did Idris Elba play in The Suicide Squad?
Elba was ultimately cast as Bloodsport.
Is The Suicide Squad part of the DCU?
Gunn said it is the first canon film in the DCU and can be watched on HBO Max.