Earlier this week, the shortlist of actors to portray Steve Rogers in director Joe Johnston's "Captain America" film included Garrett Hedlund, Channing Tatum, Chris Evans, Ryan Phillippe, Mike Vogel, Sebastian Stan and Wilson Bethel. And while the start of principle photography is slated to begin in June, thus far only Hedlund has been reported to be out of the running for the role. However, a new report indicates that Bethel may also be eliminated as well.
According to IGN, Bethel confirmed that he was out of the race for "The First Avenger: Captain America" with the following message on his Facebook page: "O Captain, My Captain... I am not He... Thanks for all of the love & support." Bethel's screen credits include "Generation Kill", "Cold Case" and "The Young And The Restless."
It's currently unknown if Marvel will cast the role from the remaining candidates or expand the pool of actors as they did after John Krasinski, Chace Crawford, Scott Porter and Michael Cassidy were eliminated.
Hugo Weaving is reportedly still in negotiations to portray the Red Skull — Cap's greatest enemy throughout his entire history.
Keira Knightley, Alice Eve and Emily Blunt are also contending to portray the female lead, which is rumored to be either Betsy Ross or Peggy Carter.
What are your feelings on Bethel's exit from contention? Which of the remaining actors should portray Steve Rogers on the big screen? And is it to too late to call Ryan Reynolds? Sling your shields in the comment section below or on Twitter!