Imagine being told you’re too out of shape for a superhero role, only to land one of the most iconic characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Chris Pratt’s journey to becoming Star-Lord is as fascinating as it is unexpected, and now he’s spilling the beans on his MCU future, failed auditions, and why he’s not suiting up as Batman anytime soon. But here’s where it gets controversial: could Pratt’s vision for Star-Lord’s next decade redefine the character entirely? Let’s dive in.
Currently promoting his new sci-fi film Mercy, Pratt recently sat down with Josh Horowitz (check out the full interview here) to discuss his career, from Jurassic World and The Super Mario Bros. Movie to his defining role as Star-Lord in Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy. While his MCU future remains shrouded in mystery, leaked concept art hints at potential appearances in VisionQuest, Avengers: Doomsday, and Avengers: Secret Wars. Marvel has assured fans, ‘The Legendary Star-Lord Will Return,’ but what that means is anyone’s guess—for now.
And this is the part most people miss: Pratt’s casting as Peter Quill in 2013 was a surprise to many. At the time, he was best known for his comedic role in Parks and Recreation and had recently gained significant weight for Delivery Man. ‘I was 285 pounds,’ Pratt recalled. ‘Kevin Feige basically wanted to know if I could get back in shape.’ Feige even pulled out a photo of Pratt from his Zero Dark Thirty days, asking, ‘Can you do that again?’ Pratt’s bold response? ‘Dude, I’ll kick that guy’s ass in seven months.’ And just like that, the role was his.
What’s even more surprising? Star-Lord wasn’t Pratt’s first superhero audition. He tried out for Captain America, a member of Thor’s Warriors Three, and even submitted a tape for Superman in Man of Steel. ‘I watched my Superman tape and thought, ‘Dude, I would not cast that guy either,’’ Pratt admitted with a laugh.
With James Gunn now steering DC Studios, rumors swirled about Pratt playing characters like Booster Gold or even Batman. Pratt addressed the speculation with humor, sharing a Photoshopped image of himself in a Batman mask. ‘James just said, ‘Haha,’’ Pratt revealed. ‘I’m not going to be Batman. I don’t think I’d be right for it.’ Bold statement, right? But is he wrong? With so many interpretations of the Dark Knight already, Pratt’s take might feel redundant—or would it have been a fresh spin? Let us know in the comments.
Pratt’s MCU journey as Star-Lord is far from over. He praised Gunn’s decision to keep Peter and Gamora apart at the end of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, noting it allows for deeper exploration of Peter’s trauma and growth. ‘He’s in a real position to define himself now,’ Pratt explained. ‘No family obligations, no wife—just him.’
When asked about his future as Star-Lord, Pratt admitted, ‘Yes and no. Everything at Marvel is fluid. I’ve pitched my vision for the next 10 years, and I’m all in.’ But here’s the real question: Will Marvel follow his lead, or will they take Star-Lord in a completely different direction? Pratt’s enthusiasm is undeniable, but only time will tell if his ideas align with the studio’s plans.
While Pratt dreams of Gunn returning to continue Peter’s story, he acknowledges the talent of other directors. ‘There are amazing people out there,’ he said. For now, fans can catch Pratt in Mercy and eagerly await his next MCU appearance.
What do you think? Is Pratt’s vision for Star-Lord the right path, or should Marvel explore new territory? And could he ever pull off Batman, or is he better suited for the stars? Sound off below!
