Bradley Cooper rules himself out of directing Guardians of the Galaxy 3 after debut film A Star Is Born

The actor said he "could never direct something he didn't write"
Director: Bradley Cooper has been rumoured to be taking over the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise
Vianney Le Caer/Invision/AP
Natasha Sporn28 September 2018
The Weekender

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Bradley Cooper has ruled himself out of directing Guardians of the Galaxy 3, saying that he could “never direct something he didn’t write”.

Cooper, who voices Rocket Raccoon in the film franchise, has won plaudits for his directorial debut A Star Is Born, in which he stars alongside Lady Gaga.

Rumours have been swirling that Cooper could be the man to take over at the helm of the Guardians franchise after James Gunn was sacked by Disney earlier this year.

But Cooper was keen to put those to bed swiftly, denying any speculation over the future boss of the film.

Boss: Bradley Cooper has said that he wouldn't direct a film he hasn't written
PA

The actor told JOE: “I could never direct anything that I didn't write.

“No, I could never direct anything that I didn't write,” he reiterated for certainty.

Earlier this year, Gunn was removed from his post as director after controversial tweets from between 2008 and 2012 resurfaced online.

Cooper was one of several main stars of the film to sign an open letter calling for Gunn to be reinstated, although stressed they are “not defending the jokes of many years ago”.

Sacked: James Gunn was dismissed as director after his controversial tweets resurfaced
Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney

The letter, posted on Chris Pratt’s Instagram, read: “We fully support James Gunn. We were all shocked by his abrupt firing last week and have intentionally waited these ten days to respond in order to think, pray, listen, and discuss.

“In that time, we’ve been encouraged by the outpouring of support from fans and members of the media who wish to see James reinstated as director of Volume 3 as well as discouraged by those so easily duped into believing the many outlandish conspiracy theories surrounding him.

“There is little due process in the court of public opinion. James is likely not the last good person to be put on trial.

“Given the growing political divide in this country, it's safe to say instances like this will continue, although we hope Americans from across the political spectrum can ease up on the character assassination and stop weaponising mob mentality.”

The cast of the popular movie – including Zoe Saldana and Dave Bautista - added that they are “looking forward to working with their friend James again in the future”.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2, in pictures

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