A guest on the Empire Film Podcast, Kevin Feige confirmed that Natalie Portman will not be reprising her role as Jane Foster in Thor: Ragnarok. When asked, Feige affirmed, “I can confirm that, yes.” Feige naturally remained vague on the exact reason why, but did concede, “Many reasons [why]. Many of which are in the film so you will see that. There are only a couple of scenes on Earth in this movie. 80 to 90 percent takes place in the cosmos.”
The Hollywood Reporter first revealed word last April, that Portman might not return when they broke the casting story that Tessa Thompson was in talks to join the Marvel franchise's third film as a new love-interest for Chris Hemsworth's Thor.
Perhaps what's most interesting is the exact wording used by Kevin Feige. His remarks imply that there are some reasons outside of the film's plot that factor into Portman not returning. When examined with regards to previous rumors that Portman and Marvel Studios have had a falling out over various issues including Patty Jenkins' departure from Thor: The Dark World, it would seem there are larger issues in play other than Ragnarok's plot.
Thor: Ragnarok opens in theaters on November 3, 2017. Craig Kyle and Christopher Yost penned the first draft of the script. Stephany Folsom was hired to rework their draft. The cast includes Chris Hemsworth, Tom Hiddleston, Anthony Hopkins, Tessa Thompson, Mark Ruffalo and Cate Blanchet. Along with Natalie Portman, Jaimie Alexander is rumored to not be reprising her roles as Lady Sif. Filming is expected to begin in June and shoot on location in Australia.