jon wattswho had been announced by Marvel Studios as the director for the first film of the Fantastic four within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, has decided to leave the project.
Although many will think of shady issues or problems of some kind, the truth is that the reason for this decision is simply the need to take a break from the superhero genre. It’s worth remembering that Watts is coming from directing the Spider-Man trilogy.
Both Marvel and Watts himself have confirmed the news, with both saying it was amicable.
In the words of the co-president of Marvel Studios, Louis D’Esposito:
Collaborating with Jon on the Spider-Man movies has been a real pleasure. We were looking forward to continuing our work with him to bring the Fantastic Four to the MCU, but we understand and support his reasons for leaving. We are optimistic that we will have the opportunity to work together again at some point in the future.
Watts himself also commented:
Doing three Spider-Man movies has been an incredible and life-changing experience for me. I am forever grateful to have been a part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe for seven years. I look forward to working together again and can’t wait to see his incredible vision of the Fantastic Four come to life.