As fans reflect on the Ant-Man trilogy, two major Ant-Man stars have quietly stepped away from the acting spotlight. Within a year of each other, both revealed their reasons for retirement, emphasizing personal fulfillment, health, and a desire for a different kind of life. Here, we share their full quotes and update on what these Ant-Man stars are doing now.
“I Did Not Want To Drop Dead on Set”
At the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, one of the franchise’s legendary Ant-Man stars opened up about why he hasn’t accepted any new roles since 2022. He shared honestly:
“I have not worked since 2022 purposefully because I realized I had to stop. I had been working pretty hard for almost 60 years, and I did not want to be one of those people who dropped dead on the set.”
Although he hasn’t made a formal retirement announcement, he admitted that acting is no longer a priority:
“I have no real intentions of going back. I say I’m not retired because if something special came up, I’d go back — but otherwise, no.”
He also reflected on his health struggles, particularly his battle with stage 4 tongue cancer, which reshaped his perspective:
“Stage 4 cancer is not a holiday… I went with the program, involving chemo and radiation, and was fortunate. The surgery would have meant not being able to talk… and that would have been limiting as an actor.”
Today, he finds joy in a more supportive role behind the scenes:
“I just like to watch my wife work.”
“This Is Where I Belong”
In June 2024, another beloved Ant-Man star confirmed her retirement via Instagram. She posted a heartfelt message that focused on gratitude and choosing a more purposeful life:
“I am so filled with joy and contentment today as I live out my vision. Praise God, I feel so grateful for my blessings. Stepping away from what seems like the obvious choice (wealth and fame) can feel scary at times, but stepping into your dharma replaces the fear with fulfillment. I might return to Hollywood one day, but, for now, this is where I belong.”
She even shared a throwback clip from a 2006 interview in which she had envisioned this very decision:
“I am terrified to admit this to the rest of the acting world, but ideally 10 years from now I’d like to be a retired actress, and I would like to have a family, and I’d like to be writing… and potentially… influencing people’s lives in a more humanitarian way.”
These days, she spends her time writing her Squickerwonkers book series and actively supports causes through organizations like GO Campaign and the Sierra Club.
A Peaceful Exit for Ant-Man Stars
Both of these Ant-Man stars stepped away from Hollywood on their own terms. Rather than chasing fame, they chose to focus on well-being, creativity, and service. Their journeys serve as powerful reminders that stepping back isn’t about giving up — sometimes, it’s about stepping into something greater.
In doing so, they’ve also inspired fans and fellow actors alike by showing that it’s okay to redefine success. Whether it’s through writing, advocacy, or simply spending time with loved ones, both stars have embraced a life rooted in authenticity. Their stories prove that fulfillment can exist far beyond the spotlight — and sometimes, that’s where it shines the brightest.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on MCU’s upcoming projects, and subscribe to Marvel Updates’ YouTube channel.
