Futurama: Bender Voice Actor Updates Fans On Possible Recasting

Futurama star John DiMaggio has given fans a detailed update on the ongoing negations regarding his return to the show, as well as the rumours of his potential recasting.

Earlier this month it was confirmed that original creators David X. Cohen and Matt Groening have signed up for a 20-episode Futurama revival that will bring back much of the original cast for a new run of adventures. But fans were quick to revolt when they noticed there was no sign of DiMaggio, who plays the foul-mouthed, hard-drinking robot Bender Bending Rodríguez.

While the show's producers are reportedly "hopeful" that DiMaggio will return, they have also made it clear that the Futurama revival will move forward with or without him.

Last week, DiMaggio explained to fans that he felt Hulu's original offer was "lowball".

"Thanks for the concern and the props, everyone. I really appreciate it," the actor wrote. "Don't worry, I'll keep you posted, but until then… CHEESE IT! #bendergate".

Now, the actor has gone into more detail about the negotiations, revealing that he believes the entire cast are worth more.

“I’ve been thinking about everything that’s been going on these past months and just to be clear, I don’t think that only I deserve to be paid more. I think the entire cast does,” DiMaggio wrote in a statement shared to Twitter. “Negotiations are a natural part of working in show business. Everyone has a different strategy and different boundaries… Some accept offers, some hold their ground."

He continued: "“Bender is part of my soul and nothing about this is meant to be disrespectful to the fans or my Futurama family. It’s about self-respect. And honestly, [it’s about] being tired of an industry that’s become far too corporate and takes advantage of artists’ time and talent… I wish I could give you every detail so you would understand, but it’s not my place. Thanks again for the love everyone. Still hoping for the best.”

Production on the new series of Futurama is expected to begin in March. Hopefully DiMaggio can reach a deal by then, as the fans have made abundantly clear they don't want to see the series come back without him.