Amanda Seyfried explains why she turned down $2.5B Marvel movie franchise: ‘This will ruin my career’

Why Seyfried passed

Seyfried discussed the decision during a Q&A with the SAG-AFTRA Foundation. She said turning down “Guardians of the Galaxy” seemed clear to her at the time, since she expected the movie might not become a hit.

She also found the premise strange, including Groot, a tree voiced by Vin Diesel, and Rocket, a raccoon voiced by Bradley Cooper, speaking to one another while the characters were in space. Seyfried said she worried a poor reception could hurt her career.

Personal reasons behind choice

Seyfried acknowledged that her expectation of failure was wrong, but said she still did not regret declining the part. She said she made the choice with the family she wanted in mind.

She also cited practical concerns, including long periods in a makeup trailer, stunts and heights. The role of Gamora ultimately went to Zoe Saldaña.

Franchise found major audiences

“Guardians of the Galaxy” earned more than $700 million worldwide, according to Box Office Mojo. The sequel, released in 2017, brought in more than $863 million, while “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” earned more than $845 million in 2023.

The heroes also appeared in “Avengers: Infinity War,” which earned $2 billion worldwide, and “Avengers: Endgame,” which took in $2.7 billion. Their appearances included “Thor: Love and Thunder,” which earned $760 million.

Seyfried’s life since the offer

The film’s story follows a group of outcast heroes joining forces against Ronan the Accuser, played by Lee Pace. Its cast also included Dave Bautista as Drax and Chris Pratt as Peter Quill.