Will The Collector Return To The Marvel Cinematic Universe?

The Collector has played an interesting role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe so far. Taneleer Tivan, played by Benicio Del Toro in the films, appeared in possibly one of the strangest post-credit sequences to date after Thor: The Dark World. He then had a much longer appearance in Guardians of the Galaxy, but the importance of his character was left somewhat in question after he lost an Infinity Stone that is now in the hands of the Nova Corps. With two Infinity Stones left undiscovered, it wouldn’t be outlandish to assume that Tivan might be returning in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 to fill a similar role.

Unfortunately for fans of the actor’s performance, it appears as if this will not be the case. Not only has director James Gunn previously stated that the Guardians sequel will predominantly stand on its own as far as the plot of Phase 3 is concerned, but recent word comes from the actor himself. Del Toro spoke to SHH on whether or not he would be returning for the Guardians sequel, and said that the likelihood of his appearance is currently doubtful. Says Del Toro:

“I don’t think so. They would have told me, I hope… I do hope to play that character again at some point.”

So not only is he unconfirmed for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, but it would appear as if he has yet to be confirmed for either installment of Avengers: Infinity War. Of course, this does not mean for certain that his character will not be returning. Anthony Mackie had made similar comments regarding the Falcon prior to the release of Avengers: Age of Ultron, yet his character still made an appearance in the film. The Collector may be returning to the MCU, but official word from the actor himself would currently suggest otherwise.

Will Benicio Del Toro be making his return to the MCU, or is his word on this as good as it sounds? We may have to wait and find out when Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 releases on May 5, 2017.

Source: SHH (via CBM)