The actor who plays Jim Rhodes, Tony Stark's best friend, in 'Iron Man' will be replaced by Don Cheadle in the sequel.
- Oct 14, 2008
AceShowbiz - Though expressing his enthusiasm for "Iron Man" follow-up earlier, Terrence Howard apparently won't be making another appearance in "Iron Man 2". Giving an updated report on the casting news, The Hollywood Reporter claimed that the 39-year-old's part as Lt. Col James 'Rhodey' Rhodes, Tony Stark's best friend and future War Machine, will be taken over by his fellow "Crash" actor Don Cheadle.
Speculating further on Howard's exit from the sequel, the publication noted that the conflict between Howard and Marvel Studios may be grounded from the financial differences, especially with the previous financial problem with director Jon Favreau. It should be noted though that Marvel have yet to release any statement on this possible replacement of Howard with the "Hotel Rwanda" star.
Initially, most of "Iron Man" main actors, including Robert Downey Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow and Howard, are expected to reprise their roles in the sequel, and Favreau has often hinted that Howard's character will play significant part in the sequel as War Machine. Despite the replacement rumor, "Iron Man 2" will still be penned by "Tropic Thunder" co-scribbler Justin Theroux and is scheduled to be released on May 7, 2010.
