Disney and 20th Century Fox’s upcoming Kenneth Branagh-directed adaptation of the classic Agatha Christie novel Death on the Nile has received its first trailer, and Armie Hammer appears to still be a main character in the film despite the sexual assault allegations that have been made against him.
Many people online pointed out that the trailer barely features Hammer, likely because of his abuse and cannibalism scandal.
In regards to the allegations, Hammer previously said that he would not respond to the “bullshit claims” after a woman named Effie accused him of raping her in 2017.
“I’m not responding to these bullshit claims but in light of the vicious and spurious online attacks against me, I cannot in good conscience now leave my children for 4 months to shoot a film in the Dominican Republic,” he said in a statement to Variety, referencing the movie Shotgun Wedding. “Lionsgate is supporting me in this and I’m grateful to them for that.” The movie, which will star Jennifer Lopez, later hired Josh Duhamel to replace Hammer. The 35-year-old actor was also dropped by his agents and removed from Paramount+’s The Godfather series The Offerfollowing the allegations.
According to TMZ, the LAPD handed over Hammer’s case to the District Attorney’s office. The publication also reported that it’s unlikely that the actor will face criminal charges.
Despite the troubling news surrounding Hammer, 20th Century Fox production president Steve Asbell shared in a statement how excited his team is about Death on the Nile.
“Ken’s sweeping, elegant vision for this classic story deserves to be seen on the biggest screen possible. We’re so proud of this film, our brilliant cast and the stellar work that went into bringing Death on the Nile to screen,” Asbell said. “We know that audiences can’t wait to experience Hercule Poirot’s next adventure, and we’re thrilled to continue working with Ken as he lends his masterful storytelling vision to the newest film in this celebrated franchise.”
Death on the Nile, which was delayed because of the pandemic, is now set to hit theaters on Feb. 11.
In addition to Hammer, Death on the Nile also stars Gal Gadot, Tom Bateman, Sophie Okonedo, Russell Brand, Rose Leslie, Letitia Wright, and others. You can watch the first official trailer for the film up top.
