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The excitement surrounding the third installment of the Knives Out franchise took a sharp turn when Mila Kunis and Jeremy Renner were announced as part of the star-studded cast. For many fans, their inclusion in the film sparked controversy and disappointment.
Mila Kunis faced public backlash in 2023 after providing a character letter in support of actor Danny Masterson during his rape trial. Masterson, known for his role in That ’70s Show alongside Kunis, was ultimately convicted on two counts of rape, with a deadlocked jury on a third count. Kunis’ letter, which praised Masterson’s character, drew criticism for seemingly downplaying the seriousness of the allegations against him. Despite issuing a video apology clarifying their intentions, Kunis and her husband Ashton Kutcher faced scrutiny for their support of Masterson.
Jeremy Renner’s involvement in the third Knives Out film also stirred controversy due to allegations made by his ex-wife Sonni Pacheco during their marriage in 2014. Pacheco accused Renner of various concerning behaviors, including substance abuse, threats of violence, and unsafe practices involving their daughter. Renner has consistently denied these allegations, attributing them to Pacheco’s desire for financial gain. Despite Renner’s denials, the accusations have lingered and contributed to the controversy surrounding his casting in the film.
For fans of the Knives Out franchise, the inclusion of Kunis and Renner in the cast was seen as a disappointment and a departure from the caliber of talent previously associated with the series. Many expressed concerns that the controversy surrounding the actors would overshadow the film’s release and tarnish the reputation of the franchise. Given the success of the first two films, expectations were high for the third installment, but the casting choices of Kunis and Renner have left some fans questioning the direction of the franchise.
As the release of Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery approaches in 2025, fans remain divided over the impact of Kunis and Renner’s involvement on the film’s success. Only time will tell whether the controversy surrounding their casting will affect the reception of the highly anticipated sequel.