Gal Gadot might step away from the upcoming Wonder Woman sequel.
According to Page Six, sources say the Israeli actress is refusing to reprise her lead role as Diana Prince if film producer Brett Ratner is attached to the project. Ratner is one of the many Hollywood heavyweights who have recently been accused of sexual misconduct.
“She’s tough and stands by her principles. She also knows the best way to hit people like Brett Ratner is in the wallet,” a source told Page Six. “She also knows that Warner Bros. has to side with her on this issue as it develops. They can’t have a movie rooted in women’s empowerment being part-financed by a man accused of sexual misconduct against women.”
Earlier this month, it was reported that Warner Bros. had cut ties with Ratner in wake of sexual harassment/assault allegations brought against him by six different women, including actresses Olivia Munn and Natasha Henstridge.
Gadot, who canceled her appearance at a recent event honoring Ratner, has spoken out about the slew of abuse allegations in Hollywood, writing on Instagram: “Bullying and sexual harassment is unacceptable! I stand by all the courageous women confronting their fears and speaking out. Together we stand. We are all united in this time of change.”
Ratner’s production company RatPac-Dune Entertainment helped produce the blockbuster hit Wonder Woman, which earned $400 million internationally. Gadot reportedly doesn’t want the producer to make any more money off the franchise, which has been praised for it message about women empowerment.
“Brett made a lot of money from the success of Wonder Woman, thanks to his company having helped finance the first movie,” a source said. “Now Gadot is saying she won’t sign for the sequel unless Warner Bros. buys Brett out [of his financing deal] and gets rid of him.”
