“Futurama” cast member John DiMaggio, who has voiced the chain-smoking robot Bender on the show since the beginning, has indicated he’s probably not going to be involved in the show’s upcoming revival on Hulu.
Offering an update on his position on returning, he penned a Twitter post clarifying that he believes that the entire original voice cast should be paid more for returning for the revival. DiMaggio wrote in the statement:
“I’ve been thinking about everything that’s been going on these past months and just to be clear, I don’t think that only I deserve to be paid more. I think the entire cast does. Negotiations are a natural part of working in show business. Everyone has a different strategy and different boundaries… Some accept offers, some hold their ground.
Bender is part of my soul and nothing about this is meant to be disrespectful to the fans or my ‘Futurama’ family. It’s about self-respect. And honestly, [it’s about] being tired of an industry that’s become far too corporate and takes advantage of artists’ time and talent… I wish I could give you every detail so you would understand, but it’s not my place. Thanks again for the love everyone. Still hoping for the best.”
The brains behind the original series, David X. Cohen and Matt Groening, are both returning for the production alongside original series cast members Billy West, Katey Sagal, Tress MacNeille, Maurice LaMarche, Lauren Tom, Phil LaMarr and David Herman.
While producers have expressed hope that DiMaggio will return, should the voice actor not sign on the role will ultimately have to be recast. Production on the new run is set to begin in March ahead of a 2023 release.
DiMaggio says he’s currently shooting the “Interview with a Vampire” series in New Orleans for AMC.
Source: Twitter
