'Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2' release date, spoilers, news: James Gunn dismisses rumors swirling around the Elders

The official title card of "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.2" Marvel Studios

The Elders are some of the most powerful and respected characters in Marvel Comics, and they have been presented in the Marvel Cinematic Universe to some degree. A recent rumor suggested that they may have a substantial role in "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2," but director James Gunn has since shot this rumor down.

Schmoes Know reported that an inside source allegedly revealed that at least four of the Elders would be in the film. This would include The Collector (Benicio del Toro) and Ayesha (Elizabeth Delicki). Ayesha is indeed in the film, but in the comics, she is not one of the Elders of the Universe.

The other two alleged Elders will be played by Sylvester Stallone and Sharon Stone, both of whom have mysterious roles in the film.

However, the report has since been taken down, and director James Gunn himself has denied that the details are true, stating on Twitter: "Where do you guys get this nonsense? Who are all the people running around giving fake inside scoops to journalists?"

Comments on his post reveal that the Schmoes are reputable for reporting accurate information, and many fans have defended them, stating that this is one one instance where they have been misinformed and that it is not a usual occurrence on their site.

According to Screen Rant, there are other clues indicating that the inside information is false. Gunn reportedly stated that the Collector is not going to appear in the film, and the only other Elder, the Grandmaster, was not going to appear in the MCU until "Thor: Ragnarok."

The report also points out that Stallone has been seen on set, but his costume resembles that of a Nova Corps member and not one of the Elders. Ayesha has also been stated to be the main villain, a high-priestess of the Sovereign race, debunking any possibility of her being a member of the Elders.

"Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2" is scheduled to premiere on May 5, 2017.

News
Marriage is the safest relationship, latest figures suggest
Marriage is the safest relationship, latest figures suggest

Of the eight children murdered during lockdown, 7 were killed thanks to the actions of a step parent or new partner.

Abortion rises in Northern Ireland for fifth year running
Abortion rises in Northern Ireland for fifth year running

Abortion was legalised in Northern Ireland in 2019.

Churches helping millions of Brits get by as living costs remain high
Churches helping millions of Brits get by as living costs remain high

Across the country, people are looking to the church for help.

Isaiah 41:10 is YouVersion's Bible verse of the year
Isaiah 41:10 is YouVersion's Bible verse of the year

Isaiah 41:10 had the highest international engagement on YouVersion during 2025, while in the UK it was Jeremiah 29:11 that topped the list.