Will Deadshot Be Recast or Replaced in The Suicide Squad?

We may have seen the last of Will Smith as Deadshot, but that doesn’t mean we’ve seen the last of the character in the DC movie universe. We recently learned that Smith has decided not to return for James Gunn’sThe Suicide Squad, which will serve as a soft reboot of the franchise yet will still take place in the same universe. However, Warner Bros. is now mulling over the idea of recasting him, or just swapping in a new character entirely.

The report ofWill Smith’s departure initially broke last night. The reporter that broke the story later took to Twitter to reveal that he had left a rather interesting and potentially crucial detail out of the story, but decided to share it with his followers after the fact. Here’s what he had to say about it.

“One item I forgot to add to story, sources say execs are now deciding whether they will recast the role or replace Deadshot with a different character from theDC universeto join the team in sequel.”

Previously, it was revealed that James Gunn, who is writing the screenplay and directing the movie, will bring in a new team not featured in David Ayer’s 2016 Suicide Squad. Though,Margot Robbie is expected to reprise her role as Harley Quinn, so there is room for some crossover. Given Will Smith’s star power, it’s understandable that they were going to aim to bring him back as well. It’s said the split was amicable and came down to scheduling issues. If Gunn has Deadshot already written into his draft, casting a new actor would seem to make at least some sense.

We’ve seen this work in massive, shared universe superhero movies before. Terrence Howard starred asRhodey in the first Iron Manand was replaced by Don Cheadle in the sequel. Cheadle has played the character in subsequent entries in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and that has worked out quite well for everyone not named Terrence Howard. Granted, Will Smith is one of the most recognizable stars on the planet and carries with him a certain, some might argue irreplaceable, charisma. Still, recasting isn’t impossible and, with production not expected to begin until September, they’ve got time to figure it out.

The other option, and what would seem to be the more likely option, is to bring in a different character from thepages of DC Comicsto fill in for Deadshot. There have been many characters who have been affiliated with the team over the years, so there would be no shortage of options. One possibility is Deathstroke, who is already cast with Joe Manganiello teased throughout the production ofJustice Leagueand pne tome positioned to be the villain inThe Batman. We’ve only seen the character show up in theJustice Leaguepost-credit scene. At the end of the day, that may be easier. We’ll be sure to keep you posted as any additional details on the project make their way online.The Suicide Squadis set to hit theaters on July 13, 2025. Be sure to check out the original post fromJustin Kroll’s Twitteraccount below.