This actually comes as a little bit of a surprise seeing as how Marvel Studios signs their leading and main supporting actors to multi-picture deals so they can appear in future Marvel Cinematic Universe films. But this is Michael Douglas we're talking about, who probably dictated the contract he wanted to sign with the studio, and if Marvel wanted him then they abided by his demands. (That last part is an assumption based on zero fact.)
Douglas played Hank Pym in ANT-MAN and while the movie isn't breaking box office records right now it is producing solid numbers and has spent its first two U.S. weekends of release in the No. 1 spot. With a budget of $130 million, ANT-MAN has already took in over $224 million worldwide which is on par with some of studios' earliest releases in 2008 and 2011.
The future of Pym in the MCU is unknown, especially since Douglas confirmed to Yahoo! UK (via CBM) he only signed a one-picture deal.
“I’m not signed up to anything more. I’ve learned a whole lot and would look forward to more if it comes my way but if not I’ve enjoyed the experience."
Douglas then spoke about how if/when he returns to the role of Pym, he wants less exposition and more bizarre.
“Paul [Rudd] and Adam [McKay’s] re-write bought a lot more humour. I accused Paul of bringing a lot more humour to his character. Michael Pena can take care of himself. I on the other hand was left giving the exposition and the plot, which I was happy to do. In the next one I hope things get a little more bizarre.”
Even though Douglas isn't signed on for another movie, he can easily sign on for more if Marvel Studios is interested in an ANT-MAN sequel or prequel. Director Peyton Reed said he would love to return for as director again for either or.
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