Marvel drops Jonathan Majors after domestic assault conviction

Emmy-nominated actor Jonathan Majors has been released from Marvel Studios following his conviction for assaulting his then-girlfriend, British choreographer Grace Jabbari. The New York jury found Majors, 34, guilty of attacking and harassing Jabbari during a dispute in March. In response to the verdict, Marvel announced the termination of their collaboration with the actor, who portrayed the villain Kang the Conqueror in Marvel films, including “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” and the Disney+ series “Loki.” Facing a potential one-year prison sentence, Majors’ downfall is particularly significant given his expected involvement in multiple Marvel projects, including “Avengers: The Kang Dynasty,” which Marvel has now rebranded as “Avengers 5.”

The studio’s decision to rework the film, with the new working title “Avengers 5,” raises questions about the fate of Majors’ character. It remains uncertain whether Marvel intends to recast the role or write the character out of the storyline. Additionally, Majors’ involvement in the film “Dreams,” anticipated as an Oscar contender, led to its postponed release. The US Army also removed Majors from a significant advertising campaign following his arrest.

The assault incident occurred during a confrontation over a text message on Majors’ phone, leading to a physical altercation in a hired car in New York City. Majors’ former girlfriend suffered injuries, including a fractured finger, bruising, and a cut behind her ear. The jury found him guilty of assault by recklessly causing physical injury and harassment but acquitted him on charges of aggravated harassment and assault with intent to cause harm.

Throughout the trial, the prosecution portrayed the assault as part of Majors’ pattern of attempting to control his girlfriend through physical and emotional violence. Text messages and voice recordings presented to the jury highlighted instances of manipulation and threatening behavior. Majors’ lawyer asserted his innocence, expressing confidence in the legal process and a commitment to clearing his name. Sentencing is scheduled for February 6, accompanied by a new protection order prohibiting contact between Majors and Jabbari.