In a strange turn of events for The Expendables film series, actor Sylvester Stallone who’s the face of franchise has departed the fourth film due to creative differences with Nu Image/Millenium chief Avi Lerner.
According to Deadline the two couldn’t agree on anything. From a new director, the script and on elements of the film (even down to the CGI). Stallone was reportedly offered $20 million to return as Barney Ross, the leader of The Expendables.
Stallone directed the first Expendables film and penned the script alongside creator Dave Callaham. Sly also co-wrote the sequels, so his influence in the film series has been vital to its success.
Stallone and Lerner have been known to butt heads and end up coming to an agreement, but it doesn’t sound like this will be the case this time round. But stranger things have happened in Hollywood.
Avi Lerner released a statement regarding the issue:
“We’ve got disagreements with Sly, but we’ve had them for over a year and a half. Right now, each one has an opinion. We agreed on 95% of things, but there are certain things in production we don’t agree on. I don’t think it’s over, but write whatever you want. In my opinion, it’s not dead.”
Box Office Performance:
- The Expendables – $274,470,394
- The Expendables 2 – $314,975,955
- The Expendables 3 – $214,657,577
The last film no doubt suffered at the Box Office after the film was illegally released online three weeks prior to the premiere.
With Stallone’s departure its unclear how the franchise will continue without their fearless leader. Perhaps Jason Statham could take over the fun nostalgia filled action franchise.
SOURCE: DEADLINE