Karen Gillan has been part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe since she joined the cast of the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise as Nebula. But before she even took the role of the adopted daughter of the powerful villain Thanos, she actually wanted to play a different character prior to the casting.
In a featurette included on Disney+ called Sarah Finn: Casting a Universe, the Marvel Studios casting director talked about various actors and characters they have portrayed, including Karen Gillan herself. Finn revealed that Gillan originally auditioned for a role in Captain America, specifically the role of Sharon Carter, or most likely known as, Agent 13 (via Comic Book).
Finn also revealed that she has been a fan of the actress and had kept her eye on her despite not getting the part. The role ended up with Emily Vancamp, but Finn brought Gillan back for the casting of the first Guardians of the Galaxy movie. She mentioned that Gillan was an "incredibly grounded and solid actor." At the same time, she was "cooky and charming in the most wonderful way."
The casting director was interested to see Gillan read even though she had never played a character like Nebula. Finn also mentioned that James Gunn described Nebula as "somewhat childlike." They figured that Gillan would be good for the role because she was able to convey a "kind of cherubic beauty mixed with darkness."
Finn hopes to see Nebula's character will be able to build a "normal, sisterly, loving relationship" with Gamora in the upcoming GOTG sequel, now that Thanos is "out of the picture."
Gillan will return as Nebula in the Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, the movie is yet to have a release date.
Also Read: Black Panther Star Chadwick Boseman Originally Auditioned for a Role in Guardians of the Galaxy
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