Shazam 2: Zachary Levi addresses Billy's character criticism after film underperforms in theatres

DC's extended universe witnessed mixed reactions with the release of Shazam! Fury of the Gods. Zachary Levi, who reprised his role as the titular superhero, recently addressed criticisms surrounding the character changes. He also specifically talked about Billy's portrayal in the sequel.

Shazam underperforms in theatres

Despite boasting the return of the creative team behind the 2019 hit Shazam, the sequel received mixed reviews and underwhelming commercial success. In a conversation with Screen Rant while discussing his upcoming role in Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget, Levi delved into his portrayal of Billy in the Shazam movies. Addressing the character changes in the sequel, he highlighted the intentional shift in Billy's demeanour, attributing it to the character's natural growth.

Reflecting on the progression from the first film to the sequel, Levi addressed Billy's aging process and how it influenced his character's internal evolution. He explained that as Billy matures, his internal dynamics change, impacting his outward persona. The actor noted that as the character ages from 15 to 17, he naturally begins to adopt a more "trying to be cool" attitude.

He said, "From the first movie to the second, I tried to age him as Billy ages, you know, in his actual younger teen form. Inside, he’s aging too. Obviously, in the first film, he was like 15, and in the second he’s 17ish, almost 18. So I tried to address that and bring that into the character, which ironically, in some ways, kind of made him feel almost a little more immature. But that’s because when he’s 15, he’s not trying to be cool guy, when he’s 17, he’s trying to be cool guy, he’s trying to be the leader, and he’s trying to kind of put on that bravado more."

Zachary Levi justifies Billy's character

The shift in Billy's portrayal in Fury of the Gods, departing from the lone wolf persona to a goofier demeanour despite his aging, drew attention from audiences and critics alike. However, this evolution can be contextualised within the character's narrative arc.

The conclusion of the first film set the stage for Billy's integration into his foster family. His emotional journey, reconciling with his past and embracing his newfound family, paved the way for a more lighthearted and joyous persona.

Levi highlighted how this character development not only provided comedic moments but also aligned with Billy's emotional growth and acceptance of his role within the family dynamic. The final act of sacrifice in Fury of the Gods showcased a full-circle embrace of his family.