Amanda Seyfried Calls Out Marvel, DC & Other Studios Sequels: “It’s Just for Money”

In a candid conversation with Rachel Brosnahan for Interview magazine, Amanda Seyfried expressed frustration with Hollywood’s reliance on sequels, labeling them as money-driven.

“I will say, there’s a little bit of fatigue with sequels,” she said. “I want original content. I think it’s really scary and brave to do it. It’s not scary and not very brave to do sequels. It’s just for money and it’s frustrating. Then again, I’d do Mamma Mia 3 in a heartbeat.” Despite her critique, Seyfried admitted she’s starred in sequels like Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again and Ted 2.

The discussion touched on this summer’s crowded lineup of franchise films, including Superman, Jurassic World Rebirth, and Fantastic Four. Brosnahan, who plays Lois Lane in James Gunn’s Superman (set for July 2025), jokingly suggested a “Barbenheimer” mashup.

“We have Jurassic Park, Superman, and Fantastic Four,” she said. “What’s our Barbenheimer between Fantastic Four, Jurassic Park, and Superman? The people need you. Supertastic Park?” Seyfried played along, responding, “It’s Fantastic Super-park. It’s Four Superparks. Four Dinosaurs. Four Super Dinosaurs. I don’t know!”

Brosnahan shared her enthusiasm for Superman, saying, “Yeah, I’d come back. We had a great time. There’s also so many people in this cast who I didn’t get to work with.” She also criticized actors who join superhero films but later disparage them. “I don’t know why people say yes only to then turn around and complain about it,” she said. “Look, I don’t want to shit on other actors, but there was a minute where it was cool to not like superhero movies and to look back on projects like this and pooh-pooh them. Do it or don’t do it, and then stand by it.”

Seyfried remains passionate about a Jennifer’s Body sequel, telling Variety she’d only do it with Megan Fox. She’s also reprising her role in a Ted animated series for Peacock.

Beyond sequels, Seyfried is busy with original projects. She stars as Nina in The Housemaid, a film she’s producing, currently in post-production. She plays the title role in Ann Lee, also in post-production, and is filming The Life and Deaths of Wilson Shedd. Release dates for these projects are pending.

Seyfried’s call for more original content hits the mark, audiences do crave fresh stories, and sequels often feel like safe bets for studios. Her honesty about loving Mamma Mia 3 shows the tension between art and commerce.

Brosnahan’s point about actors complaining after signing on is fair; it’s better to commit fully or pass. I’m excited for Seyfried’s new projects, especially The Housemaid. What do you think about Hollywood’s sequel craze and the push for original films? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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