r/marvelstudios • u/TerryandJamesVQ • 6d ago
Announcement We’re James Spader and Terry Matalas from Marvel Television’s VisionQuest. Ask Us Anything!
Hello r/marvelstudios
I'm James Spader, and I'm joined by Terry Matalas, Showrunner and Executive Producer of Marvel Television's VisionQuest.
The series picks up Vision's story as he searches for answers about who he is and where he belongs after the events of WandaVision. You can watch the trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oSVTAUKyrL8
We're excited to talk about making the show, revisiting these characters, crafting a new chapter in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and whatever else is on your mind.
We'll start answering questions at 7am PT / 10am ET / 3pm BST, Monday 12 October.
Let's do this.
Thanks all!
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u/puzzleShockTurtle 6d ago
Hey, Mr. Spader, I just had simple question. Were you a comic reader when you were a kid and if so, which superheroes were your favorite?
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u/TerryandJamesVQ 5d ago
James: Ah, great. So I was actually, and in the very first meeting I had with Kevin Feige, I spoke of that. When I was young, I didn't have any comics in our house, but I had my best friend at the time. Will, who had a whole trunk full of comics, and I would go to his. I loved going to his house for sleepovers. First of all, I like sleepovers, but secondly, I go over to Will's house and I could just go into the trunk and just read and read and read and read comics and I loved them. I loved the Shadow, I loved Jonah Hex, and then I loved Spider Man. I really loved Spider Man.
Also The Shadow was supplemented by the fact that my mother was a school teacher, and I went to the same elementary school that she taught at, and so she would drive us to school every day. And there was a radio station in Massachusetts at that time that we would listen to, on the way to school, they played old radio shows, and all different things-things that were funny, things that were serialized-I mean, all different kinds of things. And I remember they would play The Shadow, and I couldn't wait to get in the car for drive time and listen to The Shadow. And we get to school, and I'd be “no, no, no, wait, wait, wait, wait, wait.” You know, we're all supposed to get the hell out of the car and run because running late as always. And I would just “wait and wait, wait, wait, wait, wait. No, no, don't”. And then the next day, there'd be more Shadow. I also like the Marvel shows.
Terry: The Shadow, I too love the sleepover. Those are fun. Those are the best.
James: Will and I also had another activity. Once we moved past the comic books, we then started to play a game, which was called "Getting Ready for Robbers”, and we would basically accumulate all of the weaponry that we had, everything, pretend or real, and we'd arm ourselves, which was amusing because we're wearing pajamas, and we'd arm ourselves laying in our beds completely armed to the teeth, waiting for robbers to come.
And then when we got a little bit older, we decided to go looking for robbers. And now, as we were a little bit older, our weaponry was a little bit more advanced, and then we were wearing clothing, not pajamas. We'd sneak out of Will's house, fully armed, to the teeth, and we'd sneak around his neighborhood looking for robbers…
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u/McBahtman 6d ago
Hey James! Massive fan!
I wanted to ask if there are any new layers you found to explore with Ultron this time around? The human avatar and being within Vision's mind feels like it would have been a great opportunity for you to uncover some of Ultron's more advanced programming!
And for Terry (if this is allowed),
Did you work on Picard allow you to approach this very ambitious story/setting with a lot more confidence and nuance? Trek has always been known for its social commentary and deeply human themes so it feels like a great way to prepare yourself for something as big as the MCU and make your entry stand out amongst the masses!
Can't wait to see the show and I'm so glad that my GOAT Ultron is back!
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u/TerryandJamesVQ 5d ago
James: What a great opportunity, and we took full advantage of it. I think we covered a lot of ground. That was the lovely part about doing VisionQuest, you know, I was able to be Ultron and sort of figure him out in spurts and starts, on the Age of Ultron. You know, because you only have so much real estate. But this was eight little movies, and so we were able to cover a lot of ground, which we did, literally and figuratively.
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u/TerryandJamesVQ 5d ago
Question 2:
James: I mean, I love that person.
Terry: I love that person too.
James: Yes, and well done, by the way.
Terry: Thank you. Yes, I appreciate that.
James: I agree. Did Picard prepare you?
Terry: You know, each one of these productions are their own entity. It's great to have to have played in a sandbox with other legacy characters. I think they're both characters that have more than a decade of past story, so it certainly gives you an education on what to take from and where to go with them, and that a good ending often represents the beginning in some way.
That’s a tough one.
James: Do you want a massage?
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u/McBahtman 5d ago
What a really interesting response! I've been fascinated by your work dealing with personal identity and mixing in these deeply personal themes with massive cinematic scale.
I can't wait to see you work your magic with Vision and Ultron! This show looks fantastic and congratulations to both of you on it!
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u/McBahtman 5d ago
Thank you so much for answering my question! I can't wait to see you back as one of my favourite Marvel villains! Hopefully we can see you terrorise the Avengers once more after this!
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u/KingChiff 6d ago
James, what was the biggest difference to portraying Ultron in this show in a physical form vs voicing him in Age of Ultron? Did you prefer one over the other?
Huge fan! Thanks for doing this and can’t wait to watch the show.
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u/TerryandJamesVQ 5d ago
James: They were so much the same, and yet not. You know, because in Age of Ultron, motion capture has gotten to the stage now where you can just do scenes with other people, and you just are wearing a motion capture suit. And in this case, he was like nine feet tall, so it's say some rig and then a tennis ball at the top of a rod, like nine feet high. So the other actors are looking at the tennis ball, but I'm looking at them and playing across from them, and so on and so forth. Or maybe I guess I was looking sort of at their sternum or navel, depending on how tall they were. So there was that, which were just sort of like practical, pragmatic things. But then, you know, in VisionQuest, I got costumes and, you know, hair and makeup and all the rest. But the playing of the scenes, you know, same exercise, acting, making believe, just pretending, same thing.
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u/_Steven_with_a_V_ 6d ago
Hi, Terry! This will be the first time I watch a project made by you!
My question is: How was it to follow the footsteps of this trilogy while also finding your own take and twist to the narrative? This is a rather unconventional trilogy for the MCU in how each show shares its themes but also gets to have a unique way to tell their stories with how Wandavision is about coping with grief through the lens of sitcoms, Agatha All Along goes all on witchcraft with a morally corrupt villain at the center of it, and VisionQuest is looking to be about an artificial intelligence finding its lost humanity. I'm loving what I've seen so far with the story and how it feels so unique but also in line with Wandavision and Agatha All Along, so what was the process when finding a clear vision (haha) for your show while also keeping the themes and purpose of the trilogy's predecessors in mind?
Hi James! It's good to have you back!
My question is: How was your journey to get back to the MCU as Ultron after 11 years? It's been a long time since you last showed up as Ultron and you certainly left an impression in Age of Ultron that is still there to this day as shown in the hopes for his return years and years after the movie and the reaction to him being in VisionQuest, so what did you think about the character and the chance of returning as him after all this time? And what were your thoughts when you saw what Terry and the people behind VisionQuest had in mind for him?
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u/TerryandJamesVQ 5d ago
Question 1
Terry: Well, that's the assignment. So, you just need to start with character first. The question I asked myself was, if we were going to follow a Vision going through an identity crisis, who is he talking to? Who do I want to watch him with? He didn't have Wanda, we didn't have Elizabeth Olsen in this, and the first thing that came to my mind was Ultron. How unexpected that would be to rely on a mentor who once tried to eradicate the human race, and I kept thinking about that scene at the end of Age of Ultron between Paul and James was one of my favorite moments in the MCU, and I thought that that would be a really interesting way to dissect humanity and emotion and trauma was through this hero and villain, quasi hero, quasi villain, because they're neither hero or villain. Both of them are going through a kind of crisis of of identity -
James: I wasn't in crisis.
Terry: Well, we're going to have to do it all over.
So that was that jumping-off point, and then hopefully organically through collaboration with great writers, wonderful performers, you craft a story that is satisfying.
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u/TerryandJamesVQ 5d ago
Question 2
James: I mean, it was very short, actually. I think you know that last scene in Age of Ultron. I guess I just sort of jumped into his head, or he stuck me in there. I've been in there for 12 years.
Even after doing the whole show, I really don't, and I'm not sure whether you do. I'd be interested to know. I've never asked you, but I don't really know why Vision decided to - unless he's just incredibly benevolent, I don't know why he decided to shove Ultron in there.
Except, the only thing I can think of is in that little brief tie-in that we had with each other, there was a feeling of something, you know, whether it's creator and creation or father and son or whatever the nature of their relationship was, I think somehow he ended up in there, and so it was it was pretty instant really.
And then he just has been in there for 12 years, and they've been conversing. They're roommates, housemates.
And really, the thing that was lovely about the real passage of time-it wasn't as if, oh, we were just doing another movie that was a sequel to Age of Ultron, and it shoots two years after that, and so we sort of pick up. The lovely thing about this was the passage of time, the 12 years in between Age of Ultron and VisionQuest, is that it really dictated so many choices.
You know, you were always faced with that, or at least I was. I was always faced with the notion of how he looked, what his point of view was, his perspective on everything, including Vision, we're all dictated by the fact that they've been housemates for 12 years. He's been in his head.
There have been a lot of distractions for him along the way. I imagine that, like that Nicorette gum, I think he probably had to park Ultron sort of somewhere, and you know, the metaphorical space between his gum and his cheek, he had to park Ultron, you know, while he went off and did whatever the hell he used to do.Terry: Is that a thing, Nicorette?
James: Yeah, you park it. You don't chew it continually.
Terry: You don't?
James: No. Oh my God, you'd be bouncing off the ceiling.
Terry: Oh, what do you do?
James: You park it somewhere, and then you activate it when you start feeling like you want a little bit more fix. You just start chewing a little more, and then you park it. I have never chewed Nicoretta. I only know this because I've had several friends through the years who you know, dedicated smokers, and then tried to quit, and then became addicted to Nicorette for decades.
Anyway, so Ultron goes somewhere in between Vision's gum and cheek, while he goes off to whatever the hell he was doing with all those other people, and then had the good sense to come back to Ultron and pay attention in VisionQuest. Thanks to the genius Terry Matalas.
Terry: VisionQuest brought to you by Nicorette.
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u/RoninRonanAgamotto Iron Patriot 6d ago edited 5d ago
Hey Terry, How did the idea of bringing in all these other AIs throughout the MCU as supporting characters for this show came about? Do we see in what different light they see their maker Tony Stark, in the show?
Also, how did the brilliant idea of bringing back James D'arcy as Jarvis, as the AI this time, come into play? Who coined that idea in the room?
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u/TerryandJamesVQ 5d ago
Question 1:
James: I'm in complete agreement with that Reddit person. Why bring them all in?
Terry: It's a very Ultron question. Well, it would seem insane if he only had Ultron in that house. It wouldn't seem like the best idea. Creepy, actually. Very creepy. But the idea came from, who was he exploring humanity with, and the fact that each one of these AIs had their own take on a different aspect and talent and skill set, and so that was basically the idea. And you know, building an ensemble in this house of unlikely roommates, I think seemed like it could produce some entertaining scenes.
Like there's a wonderful scene between Ultron and Edith. That's one of my favorites, and that's an unlikely pairing. And those usually get you some of the best interactions.
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u/TerryandJamesVQ 5d ago
Question 2:
Terry: Jarvis was always part of the initial pitch, and I think early on it was Kevin and Lou and Brad said, "Well, we could get James D’Arcy”, and I mean that would be a dream. I love James D’Arcy, and it happened.
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u/allmyandr0ids 6d ago
Hello James and Terry!
Terry, I loved your work on Star Trek:Picard tremendously and now I can't wait for Visionquest! I know it's gonna be awesome!!
Of course, I'm a very big fan of Mr. Spader aswell and I loove your work on The Blacklist. I think Raymond Reddington is my current favourite character! I can't wait for what you have in store for us as Ultron again! (I'm sure he is gonna become my favourite at first sight!)
My question to you two: Was there a very funny or memorable moment during the recording/production of the show?
I will be binging this show 24/7 and I'm very curious about if Ultron will be set free in the end and gets to be chaotic again! 🤖
Much love!
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u/TerryandJamesVQ 5d ago
James: The whole production was so much fun! We were laughing every day.
Terry: Every day. There is a scene in the show in which we had a kind of a banquet of food, and on day one it was amazing because the cheese was fresh. By day three, they had decided we're just going to use the same food and keep it out, and it wasn't fresh.
James: Amazing. The amount of people that still continued to eat…
Terry: It's amazing. Yes, who knows how many stomach viruses were born that day...
James: Well, the cheese just got better and better.
Terry: Yes, it did. That was pretty funny-ish.
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u/allmyandr0ids 5d ago
Awww, I'm very happy that everyone had so much fun everyday! Makes me even more excited to watch the show now! ❤️
Must have smelled realy nice near that banquet of food then at day three! And there were people who still ate it? THAT is crazy! Well, if it got better and better...😂
Your answer gave me such a big smile on my face and you two seriously made my day!
Thank you Terry and James so much and have an amazing time answering questions!
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u/SnooDogs569 6d ago
Hello Mr. Spader!!!
I have read in interviews that you are an avid reader. What are some of your all-time favourite books and books you've recently read and enjoyed?
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u/TerryandJamesVQ 5d ago
James: I'm enjoying the Edward Saint Aubyn Patrick Melrose novels right now that Paul Bettany actually gave me, and then I gave him the Cairo trilogy by Mahfouz's. I mean, there's so many books that I love. I mean, so many I can't even count. But Paul Bettany and I just traded books, and I gave him the Cairo trilogy by Mahfouz.
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u/AobaSona Scarlet Witch 6d ago
For Terry Matalas, IIRC you picked up the show after Jac Schaeffer was already working on its pre production after Agatha, how much of the original ideas did you keep, and without spoilers what's something that came fully from your mind?
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u/TerryandJamesVQ 5d ago
James: All of it.
Terry: Yeah I wasn't privy to anything that had come before from Jac. The only thing that was handed to me was that Vision was going to meet Tommy and to go for it. So we had a blank canvas to paint on.
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u/Cheeky-The-Monkey 6d ago
Hi Terry and James! I'm unbelievably excited for VisionQuest!! My question is if all the AIs in Vision's mind were going to have a movie night together, what would be the ideal movie for them to watch? Would Ultron be invited?
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u/Minimum_Possibility6 6d ago
Out of Ultron, Raymond Reddington, , Daniel Jackson and Alan shore which of these characters did you enjoy the most a d which of them can you associate closest to
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u/TerryandJamesVQ 5d ago
James: I don’t know about who I relate to the most, but I mean, I played them all, so there it is. But which one did I have the most fun with? I really think it may be this one. Just because we had so much fun. Also, we're comparing it to some shows that went on forever, and so you know, at certain points, it might become tedious. This we only had eight. Yeah, there was no fat. Absolutely superb every second.
Terry: Lean
James: Yes, lean
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u/NoRevIndeed00 6d ago
James, did you expect to portray Ultron once again after 10 years, or has it been the plan to bring Ultron somewhere after his original debut in Avengers: AoU?
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u/DaleEarnhartJr 6d ago
Terry, will we get a Delorean cameo snuck in somewhere in Visionquest?
James, do you find it easier to approach established genre characters like Ultron with little immersion and familiarity beforehand to make it your own or better to do the opposite (deep research into the character and comics)?
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u/Avituses 6d ago
Hello, Terry! Thanks so much for doing the AMA!
As a huge Star Trek fan, I absolutely loved your work on Picard Season 3, particularly its heartfelt exploration of the relationship between a father and son. Since VisionQuest seems to explore some similar themes, I was wondering whether your experience working on Picard influenced your approach to telling this story in any way.
And an additional question if that's allowed:
Having worked on original series like 12 Monkeys as well as long-running multimedia franchises like Star Trek and Marvel, have you noticed any differences in the creative freedom you're given? Do established franchises offer a different kind of creative support, or do they bring additional pressure to align your storytelling with existing lore, continuity, and long-term plans?
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u/Hyxenflay7737_4565 Gamora 6d ago
Hey James! This is awesome of you guys to do!
Been wondering this for a while: do you, in your head, have an idea of how Ultron feels about Tony's sacrifice in Endgame? I've been hoping this might be brought up in VisionQuest, but if not, I thought I'd ask now, and see what your thoughts are!
Also, my stepmum found you terrifying when we first watched Age of Ultron, so, thanks!
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u/SpaderLoverGirl 6d ago
Hey James!
I just wanted to say I discovered The Blacklist right when I got diagnosed with cancer at the start of the pandemic. I was 20 years old. Discovering you and your filmography helped me get through years of treatments, 8 surgeries and other life battles including my divorce soon after my diagnosis. I know you’re not a big press/publicity guy but do you see yourself doing any meet and greets possibly soon in NY? I’d be more than honored to meet the actor whose content kept me motivated and sane while undergoing the worst moments in my life❤️ It’s been a dream of mine for years to get a picture and autograph❤️ I hope you at least see this message so you know the impact you’ve had!
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u/mcduckstophat Spider-Man 6d ago
Hi James. I’m just kind of curious has your fan base changed at all since playing Ultron? You’ve had such a varied career playing various types of characters. I’m sure you’ve had a very diverse fandom.
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u/Worried-Diamond-6674 Doctor Strange Supreme 5d ago
I can say this, yes it has changed a frickin LOT, I still remember watching that trailer and movie maintained the same aura of ultron, if anything people expected a lot due to the title, I came out of theatre so excited, but somehow I saw internet hating on this movie, I seriously didnt get it, maybe they wouldnt have hated it so much if not for Hulk buster reveal and movie title also didnt help.
I for one I'm a day 1 ultron fan, I loved James spader voice soo much, I use to kind of go deep dive into his each and every dialogue, at every different point of time in movie his tone shifted according to plot but his base voice was still there, like for example listen his voice while he's talking with vision, you can sense he seems defeated, and listen when he first met wanda, he seemed excited, it was so fkin awesome man
So excited for vision quest that I finished watching agatha harkness to not miss any plot
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u/ElkNo3531 6d ago
Mr. Spader, I heard in an interview there is a dancing scene that you originally were not keen on doing, yet we have scene you dance many times in various movies. Is there a reason you didn't want to dance as Ultron?
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u/JDMagican 6d ago
How do you sound so confident in delivering lines, so soothing and hypnotic? I could listen to Ultron wax about eradicating humanity all day
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u/MCUTheorist00007 6d ago edited 6d ago
Hello guys I've got a few questions for you: 1. For James, loved your work in Age Of Ultron and I am excited to see you in Vision Quest but my question is related to another old show of yours, Boston Legal. I'm 19 and I've finished the show for the first time a few months ago and I got to say that every scene with you as Alan Shore was BRILLIANT , seriously one of the best acting I've ever seen on my life. My question is, was there a time well you felt a bit of Alan Shore in yourself? Also, can we expect a bit of Alan in Ultron monologues?
- For Terry, I'm also a big Star Trek fan,especially TNG, and Picard S3 made me cry watching all the cast together once again,you did a good job with them. My question is, if you could do another Star Trek show reuniting another old cast, would you do it? And if you did, which show would you choose, Voyager,DS9 or Enterprise?
Greetings from Spain!
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u/WiccanUpdates 6d ago edited 6d ago
My question is for Terry. How did you approach trying to figure out what to do about Tommy Maximoff/Shepherds soul? (To clarify: I'm not asking for you to spoil it as we're all excited to see it, just about the process).
Billy and Tommy have a famously crazy origin in the comics with time traveling reincarnation of souls (fun fact in the comics at one point they were believed to be Mephisto's soul shards, but as of Avengers Academy we learned Mephisto was likely lying about that!)
Of course, for the MCU, Agatha All Along had its own mechanics for Billy's soul and you kinda have to match that in ways I assume.
To me it seems from the marketing that Thomas Shepherd and Tommy Maximoff are very much alive as one guy and he is sort of having an identity crisis, as opposed to (and this was always ambiguous) William Kaplan seemingly dying in Agatha All Along.
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u/Ryus3i 6d ago
Hello James & Terry !
First of all, I just want to say what a huge fan I am of yours, Mr. Spader.
Started my rewatch of The Blacklist a few weeks ago (on Season 9 right now) and your performance on that show just makes me even more excited for VisionQuest, and it’s so close!
I guess my question(s) is a simple one: How did it feel to step into the shoes of Ultron again after a decade? In terms of performance, was anything different after all this time or was it like riding a bicycle so to speak?
And also, would you like to see Ultron pop up in more stories in the future? Given the nature of the character and your splendid performance that is something I know lots of people and myself would want!
Can’t wait to see what the whole cast and crew have cooked up with VisionQuest!
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u/Unusual-Age-1476 6d ago
Hello James! I’m writing to you from I.R.A.N. I first discovered your work through The Blacklist, and your remarkable portrayal of Raymond Reddington inspired me to seek out your earlier films. I’ve been fascinated by your work ever since.
What I find remarkable about your performances is how you can make a character both charming and unsettling without explaining everything through words. With Ultron returning in human form in VisionQuest, I’m curious: what do you think Ultron understands about humanity that humans themselves might fail to recognize?
Thank you for all the fascinating characters you’ve brought to life. It’s wonderful to have the opportunity to ask you a question from I.R.A.N. ❤️
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u/CaptHayfever Hawkeye (Avengers) 6d ago
For Mr. Spader: You've played a lot of varied characters over the years, from sex maniacs like E. Edward Grey & Robert California to homicidal maniacs like Raymond Reddington & Ultron. How would Alan Shore defend each of them in court (if he even would), & how badly would Shore clash with Grey since they're both lawyers?
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u/TwstdPrtzl Quake 6d ago
Hi Terry!
I'm curious about the process of adapting Tommy Shepherd. How did the writers' room go about marrying his fairly minimal (though complex) history in the comics with what Agatha All Along established about him and Billy in the MCU? Was there ever any talk about building more of a mystery around his involvement or hiding him completely, like Joe Locke's Billy? Were there any other characters in his orbit you considered bringing into the series like Lisa Molinari/Coat of Arms?
I'm a big fan of Tommy in the comics, and it looks like you all have done him justice. I'm really looking forward to watching the series!
Thanks for doing this!
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u/DontBeAngryBeHappy 6d ago
Hi James!
Stargate is still one of my favorite Sci-fi movies of all time. My question;
If Ultron came out of the Stargate instead of Ra, what questions would Daniel Jackson ask him?
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u/Captain_Marvellete 6d ago
James, have you watched What If episodes involving Infinity and Show Tune Ultron? Would you be open to playing either version?
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u/Cool-Organization-90 Jessica Jones 6d ago
Hi James (and Hey Steff!) going back to AOU, can you tell us anything about Ultron’s relationship with Wanda? Throughout his quest to remake humanity, Wanda was always the one human he seemed to genuinely care for and wanted to keep alive without needing her “to evolve”. Now knowing how Vision has grown over the years, and his great love story with Wanda, I hope Ultron will acknowledge his own fatherly feelings for Wanda and how that impacts the way he advises Vision in this present timeline.
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u/TricolorChutoy 6d ago
What’s been the most exciting part of bringing Ultron back to live action after all these years?
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5d ago
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u/KostisPat257 Daredevil 5d ago
They've already answered that in interviews, Vision couldn't let Ultron completely perish, so he uploaded him in a prison in his mind.
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u/DavidTheJohnson 6d ago
Hey there!
For both Matalas and Spader - I rewatched Age of Ultron recently, and I still believe that Ultron is one of the MCU's most engaging villains. When working on VisionQuest, which philosophers and schools of thought most inspired how Ultron is portrayed in the show?
Thanks for hosting this AMA, very much looking forward to the show.
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u/RoninRonanAgamotto Iron Patriot 6d ago
Hello James, Big fan!
How does the dynamic of Ultron and Jarvis works in the series? Considering the last time they met, he welcomed the infant Ultron to this world and Ultron attacked him in return, Are there any lingering resentments? While on the other hand, Jarvis outsmarted Ultron and stalled out his Nuke codes plan.
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u/Necessary-Depth9503 5d ago edited 5d ago
For Terry Matalas: Vision has been shaped by JARVIS, Ultron, the Mind Stone, Wanda, and his own experiences. When he searches for answers about who he is in VisionQuest, is the central question whether he can recover the person he once was—or whether he must finally decide who he wants to become?
For James Spader: James, Ultron believed humanity was destined to destroy itself, while Vision represented the possibility of becoming something greater than one's origins. If VisionQuest explores the connection between these two identities, do you think Ultron would see Vision as his greatest failure, his greatest achievement, or the one being capable of finally understanding him?
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u/cl0udcastle 6d ago
Hey James, not so much a question, just wanted to say I’ve been enamored by you since Stanky Hanky in that one episode of Seinfeld. The Music of Chance is one of my favorite films from the year I was born (alongside Hocus Pocus and Red Rock West). I also quite enjoyed Curtain Call.
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u/BlancTigre Scarlet Witch 6d ago
Hello.
So first of all, do you think it will have a similar succes like WandaVision and Agatha All Along? Also out of curiosity, do you see these 3 as one trilogy of sorts?
Second, Multiverse of Madness, while a good movie, Wanda's character feel somehow disconected from the events of WandaVision, there were some bad communication mistakes there. Have the team of Vision Quest payed attention to previous events that involve Maximoff family and Ultron?
3rd, who are your favorite characters from this show and from MCU as a whole?
4, is Tommy still bisexual? It would mean a lot for bisexual fans 🏳️🌈 (we need a bi flag emoji)
And last question, wich I doubt will get a proper answer, how come Vision's sunthezoid famili from comics is absent?
Thank you in advance for answering
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u/Imaginary-Leave-2368 5d ago
Hey james, do you know much about Ultron as a character from the comics? In a sense, do you sort of care for the character of Ultron and being done the correct way or do you kind of just trust the writers?
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u/SunStarsSnow Avengers 5d ago
Hi James, loved your one episode on Seinfeld, do you have any interesting tidbits from that appearance? Do you avoid lending sweatshirts if you think the person is going to stretch out the neck hole?
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u/Pretend-Office-8343 6d ago
James, would you ever consider starring in a mature romantic comedy along the lines of Something’s Gotta Give with Diane Keaton and Jack Nicholson? I’d love to see you explore that kind of witty, sophisticated romance. I’d especially love to see you reunite with Angela Bassett.
And on the completely opposite end of the spectrum, would you ever consider collaborating with Mike Flanagan on a psychological horror film? Your ability to portray complex, enigmatic characters seems like a perfect match for his storytelling.
Is either genre something you’d be interested in exploring?
-Christine S.
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u/Reportersteven 6d ago
Do you think Ultron if he had gotten his way would have defeated Thanos and prevented the Snap?
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u/Pretend-Meaning-1536 6d ago
Is there a performance by an actor in the show (unless it's a spoiler) that stood out to you?
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u/SatineWyldFlower 5d ago
Hello, and first of all, thank you for this opportunity. Given Mr. Spader's love of art, I’d be curious to know whether or not you actually painted one of the works attributed to Ultron 😊
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u/Affectionate_Past_39 6d ago
James, I have long admired your body of work. And the way you capture Ultron’s devious and callous nature is truly a gift. What is your favorite aspect of acting alongside Paul Bettany?
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u/Free_water 6d ago
Is Ultron coming to stay in the MCU after VisionQuest like Loki did in Infinity Saga
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u/WiccanUpdates 6d ago edited 6d ago
Hi Terry! When you're making and writing a Marvel show, how do the comic books come into play? Do you have people on publishing who help you find relevant comics, are you reading new ones of these characters, looking at old classics for inspiration?
It's interesting too that sometimes there's new overlap -- for example, Tommy and Ultron just had some first time together ever in WICCAN & HULKLING: RAID OF ULTRON #1 (though I believe that was written after the show was, and fun fact by the musician Tegan Quin of TEGAN & SARA)
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u/UkuleleSteven 6d ago
I need both of you to play Ai agents employed by present day Michael Scott reprised by Steve Carell who is currently working from home.
He accidentally used ChatGPT to create a business that he neither understands what it does, or how it works. It just makes him extremely rich.
You two will be his moral compass as he navigates grandchildren, business, and how to not self implode by the horrific influx of cash.
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u/greenwichvillagegal 5d ago
James, as an embalmer who works with human cadavers, I spend an inordinate amount of time contemplating what makes us human. Ultron, meanwhile, seems determined to provide me with unprecedented job security—although his business model leaves something to be desired. Do you think his contempt for humanity stems from a genuine sense of superiority, or is he simply having the mother of all existential crises?
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u/nochnoydozhor 6d ago
Terry, how similar is the structure of VisionQuest to the mystery box utilized by Jac Schaeffer on two previous parts of the trilogy?
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u/Minimum_Possibility6 6d ago
What attracted you to the Ultron character in the first place
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u/ElkNo3531 5d ago
My guess...🤑 He has mentioned if he needs the money, he will take the job. He also mentioned in an interview if there was a way to get involved in the comic world he would like that as his youngest at the time, would think it's pretty cool.
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u/scallopsmustagottem 6d ago
Good morning James. Love your work! My wife would like to know:
How much prep time does Reddington need to beat Ultron?
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u/No_Monitor9334 5d ago
Hi, Terry and James. Question for Terry: In Agatha All Along, Billy Maximoff wasn't very interested (I think I can also say that he doesn't care) in his mother, Wanda Maximoff, firstly because he thinks she's dead, and secondly because he has other family. What will happen with Tommy, maybe he'll treat Wanda differently, will this be explored in the series?
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u/Intelligent-Olive501 5d ago
I’m so hurt Mr.Spader didn’t comment on what I said to him..😢
I’m such a big fan and he is one of the last real actors I admire and respect. He seems so honest it what he does and doesn’t play with Hollywood like most actors do. I really love him for that.
Mr. Spader never let Hollywood still your joy.. you are one of a kind! ♥️
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u/ProfessionalMango455 6d ago
Hi James,
Not a question, just here to say thank you for all your work! I’m a huge fan of yours, and I always watch anything that you’re in. You’ve entertained me for many many years, whether it was as Alan Shore, Robert California, or Raymond reddington, or now as Ultron, I’ve always considered you as one of my favorite actors.
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u/Illeea 6d ago
For James: What have you thought about the Stargate series since you worked on it. I recently started watching the series and enjoyed your acting alot.
For Terry: What's your favourite marvel movie/series you've watched. Who is your favourite character in the MCU. Scarlet witch and vision are 2 of my favourite characters in the MCU.
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u/JustAWriterDude 6d ago
James, what did you find most rewarding about working with Paul as the two of you delved into Ultron and Vision’s father/son dynamic, and did the fact you both had human “avatars” in the series open the door to exploring that in any particularly unique or unexpected ways? Thank you for coming back to this role! 🤖
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u/Fragrant-Guidance-75 5d ago
Hi James Spader! Do you think Ultron still evil and wanted to destroy the world like his previous plans from Age of Ultron? Also a question for Terry Matalas, it this show feel like a sci-thriller like 12 Monkeys that you write back then?
Cannot wait to watch this series! See you soon, guys!
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u/OcarinaofShark 6d ago
Thank you so much for the AMA James and Terry!
For both of you, out of all the Marvel shows, I feel this one had the least amount of set photo leaks/costume leaks and not alot of spoilers leak (which was super cool to see). How did you maintain the secrecy about the show so well?
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u/--Ace--of--Spades-- 5d ago
Hi James,
since you and Paul Bettany reunited after such a long time, what was it like this time around sharing such an intimate, psychological headspace where Ultron is basically a permanent voice in Vision's ear?
And how do your distinct acting styles bounce off each other?
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u/tribbleorlfl 6d ago
Huge Marvel and Star Trek fan here!
Terry- What other Marvel character would like to explore, either as a show or movie?
James- If you could appear in Star Trek, what kind of project would it be? Would you want to be an alien? A Starfleet officer?
So excited for VisionQuest!
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u/--Ace--of--Spades-- 5d ago
Hi James,
since Ultron is now essentially living inside Vision’s internal Mindspace (and had time for painting, surfing the internet etc.) how did you approach playing an Ultron that has had years to ponder humanity differently than he did in Age of Ultron?
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u/misiissleepy 6d ago
Terry, if James didn’t join the show what was your back up plan for Vision Quest? Any details on what the plot might have looked like or discarded ideas? An alternative universe if you will.
This is my most anticipated show of the year! I’m so excited!
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u/JustAWriterDude 6d ago
Terry, beyond getting to work with the amazing James Spader, why was it important to you to bring back Ultron as part of telling Vision’s story, and how excited were you to delve into that wild father/son dynamic? 🤖 Thank you for making this show!
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u/--Ace--of--Spades-- 5d ago
Hi James,
it has been over ten years since Age of Ultron. Looking back at where your and Paul's characters started versus where they’ve ended up in VisionQuest, what has surprised you the most about how their weird, twisted bond has evolved?
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u/Iisinterested 6d ago
For Mr Spader - what would Ultron’s favourite Star Trek series be and why?
For Mr Matalas -Any plans to stick around the MCU after VisionQuest? Are you involved in Zodiac at all? Or is a return to the final frontier on the cards?
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u/SpectreBrony Spider-Man 6d ago
Hi, James.
Age of Ultron was my introduction to your work. You were really great as Ultron. How is it like going back to the role and how will Ultron in VisionQuest differ from how he was in Age of Ultron.
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u/--Ace--of--Spades-- 5d ago
Hi James,
how does shifting to an 8-episode television format allow you to dive deeper into Ultron's twisted logic and his obsession with Vision compared to a fast-paced 2½ hour feature film?
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u/Delicious_Gold8695 6d ago
Hello James! Big fan of your work. You once said you like playing funny bad guys. What is the main difference between playing anti-heroes or villains such as ultron vs playing good guys? Thanks.
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u/lim0nes_ 6d ago
Hi James!! My question for you is, do you think Ultron could take down Thanos? It took a lot of effort for the Avengers, do you think Ultron could do it within minutes, with minimum effort?
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u/--Ace--of--Spades-- 5d ago
Hi James,
you are widely known for being an avid, eclectic reader. What is the current favorite book you've read lately, or one that you found yourself completely absorbed by?
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u/adventress 6d ago
Thanks for doing this! Got a couple of questions.
Is there any particular episode or scene you are extra excited for us to see?
Tell us something fun that happened on set.
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u/ThatCheekyBastard Matt Murdock 6d ago
Hey James,
Thanks for your years of work! My question is, do you think Ultron would be able to handle the shenanigans at The Office and who would become his best friends?
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u/--Ace--of--Spades-- 5d ago
Hi James,
that magnificent beard is a serious statement. How long did it take you to grow it out? And what was the reaction from your family & friends?
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u/DudeWithAGoldfish 6d ago
What's a little known work of yours (either) that you wish more people saw? Or, what's something you've done that you wish to get swept under the rug?
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u/USAneedsAJohnson 6d ago
James how do you get so immersed in each character you play? Every role I see you in it's hard to imagine anyone else playing that character.
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u/idk-just_something7 5d ago
Hi Terry! Besides MCU projects, were there any other stories that you took inspiration from to tell Vision's story in Visionquest?
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u/TheBlacksheep70 Scarlet Witch 6d ago edited 5d ago
Questions for both of you:
What is the first concert you went to? Most recent? Best?
How long would you survive in a zombie apocalypse? What are three non-weapon items you would want with you?
What are five of your desert island albums?
What is the greatest word in the English language?
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u/pichukirby 6d ago
Hello James. Do you know about Pymtron? Also how would you have played this character if Hank Pym created him like km the comics?
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u/ContentVanilla2140 6d ago
Given the runtime for the last episode, is there any tease we might expect for Doomsday? Perhaps Ultron being recruited by Doom?
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u/Timely_Support2106 6d ago
James, what would you do if you were in the final fight AGAINST Ultron (You can pick any power as long as it's not overpowered)
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u/--Ace--of--Spades-- 5d ago
Hi James, it has been over a decade since Avengers: Age of Ultron. What was it like stepping back into this universe again?
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u/Spiritual-Office4792 6d ago
Hi Terry and James very fond of your guys work, what was the funnest part for the both of you well working on the series ?
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u/marynellebloom 5d ago
Hello! My questions are for Mr. Spader.
First, I just wanted to say that I absolutely love The Blacklist, and you were phenomenal and unforgettable as Raymond Reddington. You brought such a unique presence to the character, balancing his wit, charm, and complexity in a way that made him so compelling to watch. I have so much appreciation for the incredible work you did on the show and for your work as an actor in general.
My first question is, since playing Ultron in Avengers: Age of Ultron, have you had a chance to watch any of the Marvel movies that have come out since then?
My second question is, have you come across any interesting books or stories lately? I'm also curious whether there are particular kinds of stories or characters you find yourself drawn to when reading in your own time, outside of the roles you take on as an actor.
Thank you.
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u/AFuentesJr 6d ago
I don't have anything to ask, I don't want any possible spoilers...this is just my first AMA...look mom, I'm famous!!!
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u/Superb-Caregiver-237 6d ago
Hi, James! Can we expect Ultron to feature in upcoming MCU projects and potentially the mutant saga after Visionquest?
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u/darkyozora_05 Spider-Man 6d ago
Regarding Earth-838 Variant of Ultron Robots in “Multiverse of Madness”, what are your opinions and reactions?
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u/Shy_Guy_as_Always 5d ago
Hi Mr. Spader! How does it feel to comeback in Marvel with the same character you portrayed after many years?
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u/Sea_Investigator1557 5d ago
Hey James!! With Ultron being such a complex and crazy character, just one avengers movie wasn’t enough to capture his essence. Was there ever a point after age of ultron, where you wished there was more you got to do with the character and were there any ideas and visions (ha) that you had for the character that you didn’t get to do on AOU that you’re now being able to do in Visionquest? Was there ever a part of you that was dreaming of coming back and doing more with the character, or were you satisfied originally with just the one film?
Yeah I asked way too many questions lol. Side note: do you ever have the urge to say your “I’m the fucking lizard king” at random moments? I know I sure do. Love your work and I hope you continue to thrive!!
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u/FoxMeadow7 6d ago
For James Spader, if you got contacted to play a character from DC Comics, which one would fit you best?
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u/michaelcharlie8 6d ago
No questions just incredibly excited and thanks for putting together the show and even this ama!
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u/Italian_Spader_Web 6d ago edited 6d ago
Hi James (and Terry ;)
You've always seemed to have a rather old-school relationship with technology, but you also have a teenage son, and you're now returning to the role of Ultron at a time when artificial intelligence is becoming part of our everyday lives.
- Has that brought you into contact with AI, whether you wanted it or not? Did you do any research into recent developments while preparing for VisionQuest? And, more broadly, how do you feel about the direction AI is taking? Does it fascinate you, concern you, or perhaps a bit of both?
- With the recent news that Jac Schaeffer, the creator of WandaVision and Agatha All Along, may be developing a new Stargate series, we have to ask: if you were approached about returning to the franchise, would you be interested? Is Stargate something you still hold dear after all these years, or do you feel that chapter of your career is firmly behind you?
Thank you so much, James! Sending you lots of love from all of us at Italian Spader Web. It's wonderful to have you back, and we couldn't be happier! ❤️
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u/Razorwing23 Doctor Strange 6d ago
Hi James, which version of Ultron is your favorite design in Age of Ultron ?
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u/nochnoydozhor 6d ago
James, Since Ultron is the combination of all human knowledge and culture, how much of Robert California is there?
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u/Redounet63 5d ago
Hello Mr. Spader,
Happy to be able to send you this message directly although I’m not sure you will see it.
In the series, you play the role of an AI, but in real life, how do you see AI and the fact that it is used by badgers, as I call those individuals who use it to create fake photos with your image, in order to create fake accounts in your name on social media by doing it for you, with the aim of deceiving your fans in order to scam them in one way or another?
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u/CombatPanoo 5d ago
Hi Terry, so as this project follows up on multiple running storylines that were penned out by other showrunners and writers, from Wandavision to Dr Strange 2 to Agatha All Along, what would you say were some of the biggest challenges while working on this series? Especially in the writing / outlining process. Thank you and can’t wait to watch the show, its genuinely what I’ve been looking forward to most out of all the marvel content this year
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u/jespy75 5d ago
"Hi James! Considering Ultron’s refined, artistic human persona in VisionQuest—and your well-known appreciation for the finer things in life—would you have loved a scene where he’s relaxing in a Tuscan vineyard, sipping a fine Vino Nobile di Montepulciano while pairing Grand Cru dark chocolate, strawberries, and raspberries, reflecting on humanity? Or is that pure Raymond Reddington energy?"
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u/Intelligent-Olive501 5d ago
Hi James! I just want to let you know you are one of my favorite actors ever! I’m only watching Vision because of you. I admire and respect the work that you do and love all your stuff. I have been a huge fan since Pretty in Pink and think you should have your name in the walk of fame! You are truly one of a kind and will always be!
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u/EnvironmentalDebt440 2d ago
Hello Mr.Spader, hope you are having a good time. I wanna ask you that if Mr. California from the Office met Ultron, how would their reactions be? Have you ever thought about that? Anyways, big fan of your work and especially your voice, I love how every dialogue you throw seems to carry a gravitas. Have a great day!!
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u/JakkSplatt 6d ago
I like the way you deliver your lines James. Whether it's Ultron, Rip, or Red. I'm sure there's a certain percentage of "you" that ends up in each character, even if it's just a chuckle 🤔 idk. I appreciate you. Idk if you live in LA but we lived in Yorba Linda when I was a kid in the '80s and I would recommend Knowlwoods to you if you're ever down for a great burger. I don't think the original is around anymore though but I figured you've given us much to enjoy, I'd like to give something back. I mean, you'll have to pay for it I guess 🤷 😆 Idk even if you like burgers but they seem universal 😊
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u/Fondly_Wry 5d ago
For James Spader: What influences or performances did you borrow from for your return to Ultron, or when you first began as the character?
For Terry Matalas: What was your ultimate goal with continuing Vision's story in this series? Any specific comic runs which you wanted to draw from?
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u/DeuceDropper420 Iron man (Mark III) 6d ago
Between the two of you, who would win in a wrestling match?
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u/maritzaramram 5d ago
Hi Terry,
As a huge fan of vision I was wondering which comics, avengers runs, mini comics, or single issue comics, were inspirations for the show?
Maybe avengers ai by sam humpries, or maybe some bob harras vision stuff, englehart’s stuff feels like an obvious inspiration…
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u/leo-rizing 5d ago
Hi James,
Do you feel like this evolution for Ultron feels organic? When you played Ultron all those years ago did you enVision this would be the trajectory of the character?
I love all of your work. Crash and Sex, Lies, & Video Tapes are some of my all time favorites
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u/Intelligent-Olive501 5d ago
I’m sorry James I commented earlier. I didn’t have a question just wanted to let you know I was a big fan and love everything you do sir! I still want to sit in a park bench with you and just talk. Thank you for being you ♥️
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u/KostisPat257 Daredevil 6d ago
Question for Terry:
Did you read any particular comics as a source of inspiration before starting work on the series? Were you already a comic book fan and if so, who were your favourite heroes growing up?
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u/SpaderLoverGirl 5d ago
Hey James,
Do you think Robert California was just an alias for Raymond Reddington????
Also, we would all love to see Alan Shore defend Raymond Reddington in court. How do you think that would go?
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u/Tired8281 Groot 2d ago
For Terry: Why do you keep casting the same group of people? Do you not think it's immersion breaking, to have the same group of people from 12 Monkeys, in Star Trek, in the MCU, etc.?
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u/Expensive_Special567 2d ago
Hi james! Been a massive fan since the office! Has been a fun character to play? And does parts of Robert California come back to you as you dive back into the shoes of ultron?
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u/--Ace--of--Spades-- 5d ago
Hi James,
if you had to retreat into your own internal digital Mindspace for a long stretch like Ultron, what quirky hobby or obsession would you spend all your time on?
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u/idk-just_something7 5d ago
Hi Terry and James! Is there a song you associate with Ultron/telling Visionquest's story that you would listen to to get in the right character headspace??
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u/TheCharliQuinn 6d ago edited 6d ago
Hi James, Orla Brady appears in this show as F.R.I.D.A.Y., so is it say to say that she's a good Friday?
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u/holmesy888 6d ago
Hello, James, what has been your favourite acting experience or character you have played over your career? Thank you! 😁
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u/Great-Mongoose644 5d ago
Hey James,
Was it hard to come back in character as Ultron after more than a decade, especially in a human form this time?
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u/Katastr0phy- 5d ago
I don’t know anything about the marvel world. I’m coming into this purely because James spader is in it. 🖤 😩
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u/Academic-Ad2628 5d ago
It is fun to get into, I never thought I would be into the MCU but here I am. There are a lot of movies and shows, I would try to watch Avengers: Age of Ultron, and if possible the other Avengers movies, then WandaVision, Dr. Strange and the Multiverse of Madness, and Agatha All Along before VisionQuest.
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u/idk-just_something7 5d ago
Hi Terry and James! What do you think makes Vision/Ultron unique/compelling as opposed to other Marvel characters??
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u/EMurphy24 6d ago edited 6d ago
James was it your idea for ultron to have a beard or did you just decide to grow the beard
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u/JargonJohn Darcy 6d ago
Terry if you got carte blanche to develope another MCU property what would it be?
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u/Romnonaldao Edwin Jarvis 5d ago
Hello!
Outside of Visionquest, what Disney+ Marvel shows do you enjoy the most?
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u/PseudoSignal_music 6d ago
Hi James. Given today's political climate and hot button issues, how do you think a Denny and Alan balcony conversation would go in 2026?
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u/ironjimjam Doctor Strange 6d ago
I don't have a question, I just want to say how much I love you James! You were absolutely fantastic as Raymond Reddington, and you've brought that same gravitas to the role of Ultron as well! I hope that someday I get the chance to meet you in person!
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u/jespy75 5d ago
"Hi James! Considering Ultron’s refined, artistic human persona in VisionQuest—and your well-known appreciation for the finer things in life—would you have loved a scene where he’s relaxing in a Tuscan vineyard, sipping a fine Vino Nobile di Montepulciano while pairing Grand Cru dark chocolate, strawberries, and raspberries, reflecting on humanity? Or is that pure Raymond Reddington energy?"
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u/imtalkintou 6d ago
Were you sad you didn't get to work with the actor who played Jim from The Office on Wandavision? Would have been a nice reunion!
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u/Cecilia_1402 5d ago
Hello Mr. James Spader. I don't think you'll respond to this. BUT I NEED TO COMMUNICATE WITH YOU. THANK YOU. Hola, Sr. James Spader. No creo que vaya a responderme, PERO NECESITO COMUNICARME CON USTED. GRACIAS
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u/KostisPat257 Daredevil 6d ago
A big thanks to Reddit and Disney for setting this up and to Terry and James for coming here tomorrow to answer y'all's questions! AMA starts in roughly 26 hours from now (see here for your timezone), but you can get your questions locked in the comments already.
VisionQuest starts streaming this Wednesday, October 14th, with a 2-episode premiere on Disney+