Elizabeth Olsen’s Advice For Any Actor Joining The MCU

In a recent interview, Elizabeth Olsen (Wanda Maximoff in the Marvel Cinematic Universe), shared some advice for actors contemplating joining the ever-expanding franchise. Olsen revealed that she has been approached by people seeking guidance on entering the superhero realm, and her response has been succinct: “Just give them one.”

By this, she means that actors should consider signing on for a single project instead of committing to a long-term contract. Olsen explained her rationale during an appearance on the Happy Sad Confused podcast with Josh Horowitz. Olsen elaborated (via Entertainment Weekly), “I think that way you have more control over… If you, let’s say, ‘Oh my God, this is the most fun I’ve ever had and I love this character so much, I want to do it again,’ you now have more creative control for the next one.”

Olsen’s suggestion seems logical, given that Marvel has traditionally offered its stars multi-project deals out of the gate. Notable examples include Sebastian Stan and Samuel L. Jackson, who reportedly signed nine-movie contracts, while Tom Holland and Chris Evans committed to six projects each. By opting for a trial run, actors have the liberty to decide whether to continue portraying a superhero for an extended period. It also affords them the opportunity to provide feedback on their characters’ development, granting a sense of agency.

Olsen added, “Don’t tell [David] Galluzzi that,” referring to the business affairs representative at Marvel.

However, it appears that Marvel’s long-standing practice of multi-project contracts may be undergoing a shift. Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige acknowledged this change in a 2021 interview with The Hollywood Reporter, stating that the duration of contracts has become more role-dependent in recent years. Feige expressed a desire for actors who are enthusiastic about the MCU and eager to explore further opportunities, rather than being duty bound by contractual obligations.