It goes without saying that Zachary Levi is one of Hollywood's most likable actors but he hasn't been winning popularity points as of late. After stirring controversy last month for his social media post which was assumed to be related to the whole anti-vaccination movement, the star of DC's Shazam! Fury of the Gods is once again drawing flak online for comparing Billy Batson to one of Marvel's most popular characters.
Speaking with SFX Magazine, Levi said that he sees Shazam as the DCU's version of Deadpool, only less violent and more geared towards a different audience. "I love that we get to be the most subversive of all the DC characters, almost like the Deadpool of DC. Deadpool gets to sit outside of it and comment on it all and have fun with it all – obviously in a more R-rated, mature way. We do the same thing, just a little more family-friendly!"
Apparently, his recent remarks didn't sit well with the comic book fandom. On Twitter, the former MCU actor faced mockery for comparing his DC character to the Merc with a Mouth, with some questioning whether he truly understands Shazam or not. Check out some of the reactions below:
Also Read: Zachary Levi Pitches New Plot for Shazam! in the New DCU
Meanwhile, Zachary's future in James Gunn and Peter Safran's new DC Universe remains uncertain but over the last couple of months, he has expressed his confidence that he won't be part of the chopping block despite the studios' evident desire to cast a group of new actors.
While DC Studios have yet to make things official, we're definitely hoping the likes of Levi will get to stick around in the DCU because honestly, the Shazam! franchise is one of the old regime's saving graces.
Shazam! Fury of the Gods is scheduled to hit theaters on March 17, 2023.
Explore new topics and discover content that's right for you!