The Weird Way Marvel’s ‘Thor’ Franchise Messed Up Chris Hemsworth’s Career

There must be good genes in the Hemsworth family, as Chris Hemsworth and his brothers have all been making some serious waves in Hollywood. The handsome brothers have each made a name for themselves in their various ventures. In particular, the Thor actor has become a household name after joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe. And while playing the superhero God is no doubt a blessing for Hemsworth, he’s stated that feels starring in Thor may have had a negative impact on his career.

Chris Hemsworth’s early career

While we take one look at Hemsworth and have trouble remembering a time when his face hasn’t been plastered all over Avengers promotional materials: The 35-year-old is best known for swinging his magic hammer in Marvel’s Avengers franchise. Hemsworth starred in several stand-alone Thor films and has most recently appeared in Avengers: End Game.

Before his superhero claim to fame though, the actor had some smaller roles. He was Captain Kirk’s dad in a flashback in 2009’s Star Trek and also starred in The Cabin in the Woods. He started his acting career in a little known Australian soap opera: Home and Away.

How Chris Hemsworth landed the role of Thor

Although Hemsworth did not land an initial call back, the star was inspired to try again. That is, when little brother Liam made it further in the audition process than he did, he decided that his reputation was at stake and called upon the power of sibling rivalry to help him beef up his audition.

Luckily he had friends in high places who put in a call to director Kenneth Branagh, suggesting he give Chris Hemsworth a second look.

“My manager then called up and said, ‘You know, he’s got an older brother. Can we bring him back in?’ So I did an audition in Vancouver in this hotel room with my mum reading Anthony Hopkins’ part.” the Thor star recalls. “She must have nailed it because it got me back in the room and that second audition.” 

It was ultimately decided that Chris deserved the role over Liam. The older Hemsworth has been playing the Norse God, Thor, in all of Marvel’s Avengers adaptations ever since 2011.

Thor messed up Chris Hemsworth’s career (sort of)

After playing the stoic, battle worn, action hero, Hemsworth found himself in a difficult place creatively. Thor was a very specific character and didn’t offer a lot of creative challenge for the Australian actor. That is, until they changed up the game in Thor: Ragnarok. Changing Thor’s static storyline from historic, bland, and boring for a slight twinge of comedy has proven really positive for both the Thor franchise and Hemsworth’s career. 

His 6’3″ stature and chiseled physique often line him up for roles that showcase his muscular body. But being typecast in these roles as a result of his time as Thor is not where the actor wants to be. He’s too driven and creative for that. Although, landing the title role in Netflix’s Hulk Hogan film is a direct result of his portrayal of Thor.

Hulk Hogan himself has been talking about how he has wanted Hemsworth to play him. “We need a serious actor that knows what he’s doing,” Hogan told reporters, “You know who I thought would be good? That guy that did that action movie Thor.”

What can we expect from Chris Hemsworth next?

Rumor has it that Hemsworth is hoping for more opportunities to be Thor on the big screen. He told Variety that he’d really love to explore other avenues for the character.

“I’d still love to do more, to be honest,” he says. “And I don’t know what the plan is. I feel like we’ve opened up such a different character. I feel more energized for the possibility of where it could go.”

Hemsworth explains how he would feel if there were no more opportunities to play Thor. “But I’ll use that in other places and other characters if it’s the end here.”

While we’re excited to see Hemsworth in the newest edition of the MIB films, Men in Black International, and interested to see the Jay and Silent Bob reboot, we’re holding out for Marvel to announce “Asgardians of the Galaxy”. It might be a while to wait because he is rumored to be spending some quality time with his family for a while. As the actor takes a break, we’ll be as patient as we can.

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