James Spader has returned to the Marvel Cinematic Universe as a human version of Ultron in VisionQuest, with a look that includes a long beard and a top hat. Series creator Terry Matalas said Spader proposed both choices, despite his initial doubts about the beard.
Matalas recalled on the New Rockstars Podcast that Spader told him he was growing a beard. When the actor arrived on set with what he called a “mane,” he explained that Ultron needed a commanding, almost godlike presence because he was no longer appearing as a nine-foot-tall robot. Matalas then called Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige to share the idea.
Spader also suggested wearing a top hat. Matalas said he had reservations about that request, too, but came to feel the finished look worked. He described the beard as an unexpected, iconic choice that emerged through collaboration.
Spader told Cineatomy that the beard also helped convey Ultron’s history without spelling it out in dialogue. He wanted the character’s entrance to show the passage of time and indicate that Ultron had been imprisoned.
In VisionQuest, Ultron appears within Vision’s mind, allowing Spader to play him in human form. Matalas has said the relationship between Ultron and Paul Bettany’s Vision is central to the series, providing a way to explore humanity and connection.
Sources: TVLine.