When Taylor Russell abruptly exited Michael B. Jordan’s “The Thomas Crown Affair” mid-shoot due to the usual “creative differences” line, as reported by Deadline, plenty of eyebrows were raised.
That phrase, “creative differences,” gets trotted out so often in Hollywood it’s basically industry code for something went wrong behind the scenes. But what actually happened? The trades must know something, but they seem to be staying out of it. Thankfully, Jeff Sneider isn’t.
According to Sneider, word is that Russell and Jordan reportedly grew “close” in the lead-up to production. Things eventually cooled off before the European leg of the shoot began, but the fallout was allegedly significant enough to impact the working environment on set.
Whether it was personal tension, professional friction, or a messy mix of both, it apparently reached a point where a clean break was the only solution. I don’t blame them, but at the same time, Jordan stars and directs, and MGM/Amazon cannot be too happy about this.
The result? Russell is out, and Adria Arjona (“Hit Man”) is in. Arjona is currently in the middle of reshooting all of Russell’s scenes. As far as I’m concerned, she’s an upgrade for the role, even if Russell might be the more talented actress. It’s all about the part, and Arjona is a better fit for this role.
Regardless, this is a major shakeup for a high-profile project that was supposed to be a smooth star and directorial vehicle for Jordan and a stylish reinvention of the classic film. Instead, it’s become a behind-the-scenes drama of its own—one the trades wouldn’t touch.
Jordan is currently shooting the romantic heist thriller in London with an eye on a March 5, 2027 theatrical release. The cast also includes Kenneth Branagh and Lily Gladstone. Bradford Young is the DP.