Futurama is coming back – but Bender voice actor John DiMaggio remains the one holdout in bringing the original cast back together.
Entertainment Weekly reports that negotiations between DiMaggio and Hulu/20th Century Animation have hit a "standstill." The current plan is for a replacement voice actor to join the imminent table read, though both DiMaggio and the studio are reportedly open to a return.
DiMaggio briefly addressed the ongoing situation on Twitter. He wrote, “Thanks for the concern and the props, everyone. I really appreciate it. Don’t worry, I’ll keep you posted, but until then… CHEESE IT!” DiMaggio has since been retweeting fans who are eager for Bender Bending Rodriguez to make a return.
"Some roles can't be recast," said one. Another wrote, "The very idea of doing Futurama without you is blasphemy and not a single fan of the show or your work would accept some imitator. I truly hope a deal is worked out so you can rejoin the cast!"
This isn’t even the first time Futurama has been brought back amid cast controversy. The show was originally cancelled after a four-year run on Fox, spanning 1999-2003. It was then revived by Comedy Central – but not before protracted talks over salaries. It remains to be seen whether the so-called #Bendergate will have a similar outcome.
In the meantime, check out some of the best shows on Disney Plus.
