Deadpool co-creator Rob Liefeld has expressed optimism on the future of the character on-screen, calling it "exciting times" in the wake of the unprecedented Walt Disney Co. and 21st Century Fox deal.
RELATED: Democrats Seek to Investigate Disney/Fox Deal
In an interview with ComicBook, the Image Comics co-founder expressed confidence that Disney CEO Bob Iger and Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige would indeed honor the essence of the franchise. "[Disney CEO] Bob Iger didn’t deliver this unprecedented level of historic success for Disney by accident. This man gets it. He understands the culture and more importantly he understands the concerns of the fans," Liefeld said.
"Addressing the Deadpool issue right out of the gate gets high marks and in all honesty, why would they mess with the success that Ryan Reynolds has achieved as Deadpool? The next person I encounter that tells me they want a neutered version of Ryan’s Deadpool will be the first person to express that to me. So smart of Iger to lay that foundation of trust and I for one am so appreciative. It definitely alleviated a concerned Deadpool base."
Iger has reassured fans of Fox's filmverse that all properties would be properly integrated into the fold, after some questioned if Disney would dilute violent stories like those told in Deadpool and Logan. With a Deadpool sequel on the way, Iger also made it clear the R-rated vision Ryan Reynolds built will stay as is.
RELATED: Logan Director Clarifies Stance on Disney/Fox Deal
"I can’t wait to see how Deadpool will eventually be inserted into the greater Marvel Pantheon. I’m sure Bob Iger and Kevin Feige have some great tricks up their sleeves. Exciting times!” Liefeld concluded.