Why Rhoadey Hit The Road Options

[G-Man]

Levi sent this. Originally posted on the IGN.website.

Iron Man 2: Howard's End
Why was Rhodey recast for the sequel?
by Jim Vejvoda
November 3, 2008 - Fans have been wondering why Terrence Howard was replaced by Don Cheadle in the role of Jim "Rhodey" Rhodes in Iron Man 2. A new report claims to shed light on what happened behind the scenes that led to the casting switch.

According to Entertainment Weekly, Howard was reportedly "difficult" on the set of Iron Man and, as the first actor officially signed for the film, reportedly got paid the most, even more than star Robert Downey Jr. Furthermore, EW claims, director Jon Favreau "and his producers were ultimately unhappy with Howard's performance, and spent a lot of time cutting and reshooting his scenes."

The magazine goes on to say that "when Favreau and screenwriter Justin Theroux went to map out the sequel they found themselves minimizing Howard's story line. Once Marvel learned that Favreau was thinking of curtailing the role, the studio went to the actor's agents with a new and drastically reduced offer — a number that's similar to what supporting cast members were paid for the first movie."

Needless to say, neither side could agree on a deal at such a reduced rate and Cheadle was

[Quato]

Somehow I think they just wanted a bigger name for the role. Don Cheadle has been getting some lead roles in movies and Marvel appears to like actors with a high profile.

Q