In an interview with Fade In, The actor told them that he felt playing one hero in a potential franchise movie was enough..
“I met with the Director of Captain America last year. We'd just have to continually pass on it because of scheduling. Also, to be in something that had a second and a third film following it, we felt that Tron already had that, you know. To mix in another heroic character with that was not necessary. In short, we kind of always passed on it. I didn’t really think that was my gig.”
So, who knows what would have happened if he remained in the running? We could have seen Hedlund wield the shield next year and not Chris Evans. Personally I'm kind of glad he passed, I'm not aware of his acting ability but purely from a physical standpoint I think he's a bit too boyish looking. But its was a brave move no doubt. Most actors wouldn't think twice about jumping on board any number of big franchise movies. Hedlund has freed himself up to star in more indie fare like
Country Strong with Gwyneth Paltrow, and Walter Salles' adaptation of
On The Road with Kristen Stewart, Kirsten Dunst, Amy Adams, Steven Buscemi and Viggo Mortensen.
Tron: Legacy hits theaters December 17th.