This was quick. Just moments after Oscar winner Al Pacino left Despicable Me 2, Universal and animation studio Illumination Entertainment hired former Law & Order actor Benjamin Bratt as his replacement.
Deadline first reported the news, which is a bit of a surprise since the film is due out on July 3. The site notes that ‘creative differences’ lead to the Godfather actor deciding not to record his dialogue as the film’s villain, Eduardo.
Universal and Illumination said that it was a “mutual” decision, adding in a statement to Deadline, “Universal and Illumination thank Al for his many contributions to the process and look forward to a new actor bringing this memorable character to the screen upon its release this summer.”
Less than two hours later, Deadline and Variety reported that Bratt was hired to play the role. The actor is also attached to do voice work for Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs 2, reprising his role from the first film.
Despicable Me was a surprise hit in 2010 and featured the voice of Steve Carell. It cost just $69 million to make and grossed $540 million internationally. Most of the creative team is back for the sequel, including directors Chris Renaud and Pierre Coffin.