Terrence Howard has suggested that his dismissal from the Iron Man franchise was connected to a heated confrontation with film producer Joel Silver. Howard, who played James 'Rhodey' Rhodes in the 2008 original, was replaced by Don Cheadle for the 2010 sequel.
Speaking on the PBD Podcast, Howard recalled an incident at the 2007 Venice Film Festival while promoting the film The Brave One, in which he co-starred with Jodie Foster. Howard said he became frustrated when a reporter questioned why he did not receive top billing alongside Foster, a matter he had himself raised.
According to Howard, producer Joel Silver approached him and explained that Foster was the star, adding that any Oscar nomination Howard might receive would be for Supporting Actor, not Best Actor. Howard claimed he responded: 'Thank you for telling me that, now I understand. But, you have to remember that I'm a man just like you, and if you ever talk to me in that way again, I'm going to knock your teeth out of your mouth.'
Howard noted that Silver's producing partner on The Brave One was Susan Downey, wife of his Iron Man co-star Robert Downey Jr. 'Eight months later, I lose Iron Man,' Howard said. 'And I'm sure that all of those things played their part.' Representatives for Silver and Downey have been contacted for comment.
Howard also reflected on how his attitude may have cost him opportunities, recalling advice from Denzel Washington, who told him: 'Look at your hands, your fists are all balled up. All of these producers are trying to open your hand so they can put money in it, but you won't do it; you keep your hands all tight. And you're blowing it.'
