Amid rising speculation about new video game characters making their debut, Sarah Paulson recently addressed the rumors surrounding her casting as Rouge the Bat in Sonic the Hedgehog 3. This upcoming sequel in the adaptation of SEGA’s franchise will feature Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles teaming up, albeit reluctantly, with Dr. Robotnik to confront the vengeful Shadow the Hedgehog. Ben Schwartz, Idris Elba, Jim Carrey, and Colleen O’Shaughnessey are set to reprise their roles, while Keanu Reeves joins the cast as Shadow, alongside both new and returning actors such as Lee Madjoub, James Marsden, Tika Sumpter, and Krysten Ritter.
In a recent interview with ComicBook.com while promoting her upcoming horror-thriller Hold Your Breath, Paulson was queried about her rumored role as Rouge the Bat. The accomplished Emmy and Golden Globe winner dismissed the speculation, clarifying that she has not been contacted for the part, stating plainly, “nobody has called me.” However, she expressed enthusiasm for the role, stating that she would welcome any conversation about it. Here’s what Paulson had to say:
Nobody has called me about playing Rouge the Bat, but I would like them to. No one has asked me to do this, so whatever that rumor is, I can debunk for you right now. But if someone wants to call — if you want to send it to the people who make it happen, I am down to.
What Paulson’s Response Means For Rouge’s Sonic Future
She May Not Be In 3, But Could Appear In Other Films
While Paulson’s announcement indicates that she won’t play Rouge in Sonic the Hedgehog 3, it does not entirely exclude the possibility of the character appearing in the film. At this time, several cast members’ roles remain under wraps, including talents like Ted Lasso alum Cristo Fernández, Tell Me A Story‘s James Wolk, and Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping‘s Jorma Taccone. Sofia Pernas, known for her role as art thief Lexi Vaziri in CBS’ Blood & Treasure, is yet another actor whose character has not been confirmed and could potentially fit as Rouge.
Taccone is already involved with the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise, having directed an episode of the Knuckles spinoff series available on Paramount+.
If Pernas is not cast as Sonic the Hedgehog 3‘s Rouge, it seems likely that the character will be reserved for future projects. The creative team, including director Jeff Fowler and writers Pat Casey, Josh Miller, and John Whittington, have been judicious in introducing characters from the games, possibly preferring to focus on the narrative involving Shadow and Maria before incorporating secondary characters like Rouge or Amy Rose.
Our Take On Rouge’s Potential Movie Chances
Sonic The Hedgehog 3 May Be Premature, But Her Role Is Vital Moving Forward
Regardless of Paulson’s statements, it might be beneficial for Rouge the Bat to be absent from Sonic the Hedgehog 3. The initial trailer suggests that this installment will tackle darker themes, which may not align with the lighter tones often associated with Rouge’s character. While she’s not strictly comedic, her levels of levity contrast with the narrative intensity anticipated in this film.
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8 Sonic Movies & TV Shows We Want To See After Sonic The Hedgehog 3
Given the introduction of new characters and plotlines, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 could pave the way for various spin-off films and television series. If Rouge does not feature in this installment, she stands to play a significant role in future films. Historically, Rouge has been linked with Shadow in both antihero and villainous arcs and serves as a femme fatale-like figure for Knuckles. Should the upcoming movie conclude with Reeves’ character experiencing some redemption, introducing Rouge would be crucial in maintaining the tension between Sonic and Shadow moving forward.
