Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 director James Gunn confirmed that the new threequel will serve as the final adventure of this iteration of the team led by Chris Pratt's Peter Quill. This development spells an uncertain future for the members of the team, meaning that it is unknown if they will return after the upcoming MCU movie. Gamora actress Zoe Saldana previously teased the "emotional" end of the franchise, saying that Gunn "weaved this wonderful story" about the core heroes.
Another Guardians cast members who recently opened up about her Marvel future is Karen Gillan. The actress admitted that the threequel's script made her cry, suggesting that Nebula could be at the center of the film's emotional core in the story.
In addition, Gillan also said that she is "interested to maybe try and take [Nebula] to a place now where she's starting to rebuild her life," but it is unknown if this will be explored in Vol. 3 or another project altogether.
Now, ahead of the film's 2023 release, Gillan has shared a significant update about the threequel while also teasing Nebula's future.
Karen Gillan Wraps Filming for Guardians 3
Karen Gillan, who plays the MCU's Nebula, confirmed via an Instagram post that she has already wrapped filming for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.
Upon confirming the production wrap, the MCU actress pointed out that she's unsure if Nebula "will return beyond [Vol. 3]," admitting that "it's possible that this is her final chapter."
Given the character's unknown future, Gillan continued by sharing her heartfelt gratitude to director James Gunn while also saying that she "enjoyed this exploration more than any other character" that she's played:
"And that’s a wrap on Nebula in Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3!!!!!I don’t know if Nebula will return beyond this, it’s possible that this is her final chapter. And if that’s the case, then I just want to say thank you to @jamesgunn for giving me such an interesting, complex and fascinating character to play.I have enjoyed this exploration more than any other character I’ve played.That was one hell of a decade. Thanks for watching…"
Will Nebula Return After Guardians 3?
Gillan's confirmation is in line with James Gunn's claim that filming for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 will end soon. Now that the Marvel actress has wrapped her own work on the film, it's safe to assume that Gunn and the rest of the crew are close to gearing up for post-production.
While Gillan's MCU future is unknown, the Marvel actress has already expressed interest in a potential Disney+ spinoff centered around Nebula. However, Gillan noted that it could end up being a prequel since the character "has a really interesting backstory."
The actress' past comments combined with her latest remarks could hint that Nebula would likely suffer an unfortunate fate in the threequel that could put an end to her MCU tenure once and for all. A previous set photo has also showcased a battle-worn Nebula, adding more evidence that the character could potentially bite the dust in the movie.
Seth Green, who plays Howard the Duck, also mentioned that Vol. 3 is the "sisters' story," meaning that a good chunk of the movie will explore Nebula and Gamora's sisterly dynamic. If Nebula does end up being killed, it's possible that she would sacrifice her life for Gamora or even the rest of the Guardians.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is set to premiere in theaters on May 5, 2023.
