Michael Cera has opened up about the reasons behind his decision to decline a potential role in the Harry Potter universe spinoff film Fantastic Beasts. During a candid discussion on Louis Theroux‘s podcast, he shared insights into his thought process regarding the franchise. “I don’t even know if I was offered, I think I just declined to engage with it because I think it would be like probably six years commitment or something. But also, I did sort of make a conscientious choice to limit my exposure a little bit, or just try and be a little more in control of it,” Michael explained. He expressed a deep concern about the implications of starring in children’s films, fearing that such a role could lead to overwhelming fame and public scrutiny, which he was not prepared for at that stage in his career.

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In reflecting on his past sentiments, he mentioned, “I think I’ve outgrown that particular feeling, but I think that’s what that was at that time. But if a franchise came along now and seemed interesting, I don’t think on the grounds of it being a franchise I would storm out of the office or anything.” This statement illustrates his evolving perspective on acting opportunities within large franchises, suggesting a newfound openness to similar projects that he might have previously avoided due to concerns about fame.

Eddie Redmayne portrayed Newt Scamander in the original Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them released in 2016. Following this, a sequel graced the screens two years later, leading to the 2022 release of Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore. Despite the initial excitement for the series, current indications show that there are no active plans for the continuation of the film franchise, leaving fans wondering about its future.