The Marvel Cinematic Universe has been one of the more successful franchises in all of Hollywood but some A-list stars have left their fold for one reason or another. Natalie Portman is one of those.
Jane Foster, her character in "Thor" was supposed to play a significant role in the trilogy as Thor (played by Chris Hemsworth) was seen choosing to stay in Midgard (Earth) at the end of "Thor: The Dark World." It did seem to hint of a bigger role for Foster especially since she has already seen Asgard.
However, in "Avengers: Age of Ultron," the absence of Foster seemed to leave unanswered questions. Kevin Feige, Marvel's main man has already given the token response (via Screencrush).
"There are only a couple of scenes on Earth in this movie; 80 to 90 percent takes place in the cosmos."
Sure, but how does that explain her disappearance? Did she and Thor break up? If so, how and why is there no closure? Marvel has not been immune from plot holes but compared to the other superhero studios they have been tight. How they would write off Foster after the ending of "Dark World" would be challenging.
In a video interview with Wall Street Journal, Portman categorically declared that she was "done" with the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Still, she said she's thankful for the experience and even open to reprising her role.
"I don't know if, maybe, one day they'll ask for an Avengers 7 or whatever. I have no idea! But as far as I know I'm done," Portman said.
It's a valid question to ask, what made Portman decide to leave the studio. In a feature article on Looper, Portman was listed as an "actor who hates the Marvel Universe." The reason for this is not related to the plot or her character.
"According to reports, Portman just about hit the ceiling when her hand-picked director, Patty Jenkins, was fired from 'Thor: The Dark World.' In fact, it was widely reported that Portman wanted to quit the series entirely in protest, but was contractually bound to finish the film. She hasn't shown up in a Marvel film since, though, not even for a cameo. Hell hath no fury," the article stated.
Jenkins was eventually tapped as the director for Warner Bros' DC movie "Wonder Woman."