Mystery Solved: Why Michael Baldwin Wasn’t in "PHANTASM 2"
Did you miss A. Michael Baldwin in PHANTASM 2?
The most frequent question PHANTASM phans ask on social media is… WHY WASN’T MICHAEL BALDWIN in PHANTASM 2?!?!
Michael Baldwin, who portrayed Mike Pearson in the original "Phantasm," was a noticeable absence, and many fans felt the change. This post aims to unravel the mystery behind the casting decision.
PHANTASM 2 is an 80s horror classic but many fans were curious why Michael Baldwin was not in it.
The Original "Phantasm" and its Cult Following
Before diving into the sequel's casting choice, it's crucial to recognize the impact of the original "Phantasm" film. Released in 1979 and directed by Don Coscarelli, "Phantasm" introduced viewers to a surreal, nightmarish world filled with flying silver spheres, creepy grave robbers, and the imposing Tall Man. Central to the story was the character Mike Pearson, brilliantly portrayed by a young Michael Baldwin.
Given the cult success of the original, anticipation for a sequel was palpable. When "Phantasm 2" was announced, horror movie fans eagerly awaited the return of their favorite characters. But they were in for a shock.
Michael Baldwin’s performance in the original PHANTASM will go down in history as one of the coolest characters in horror cinema!
The Real Reason for Baldwin’s Absence
The real reason Michael Baldwin did not reprise his role
The truth behind Baldwin's absence is less about drama and more about the pragmatic realities of film financing. Universal Studios, which backed "Phantasm 2," was interested in casting actors with more notable reputations to ensure the sequel's success.
PHANTASM creator Don Coscarelli tells the full story in his excellent memoir TRUE INDIE. The studio gave him the ultimate PHANTASM Sophie’s Choice. “YOU CAN EITHER HAVE REGGIE OR MIKE… PICK ONE”.
Enter James Le Gros
James LeGros was absolutely PHANTASTIC in Phantasm 2!
The role of a new “Mike” was a hot role for young Hollywood and even included a then unknown Brad Pitt auditioning for the role!
This led to the role of Mike Pearson being given to James Le Gros, a more established actor at the time. It was easier to replace a young Mike with an older actor than Reggie who looked pretty much the same.
Coscarelli himself has expressed that the casting change was one of the most challenging aspects of making the sequel.
Fan Reaction and Baldwin’s Return
The Ball Was Back when PHANTASM 2 came out!
The reaction from "Phantasm" fans to Le Gros’s performance was positive. When watching behind the scenes footage from the shoot in the various Blu-Ray releases you see Le Gros going full method by always having a lollipop in hand like Mike did in the original on Main Street.
However, Michael Baldwin’s portrayal was so beloved that fans couldn’t help but miss having him in the sequel.
Once PHANTASM 3: LORD OF THE DEAD came around, Michael Baldwin was recast bringing the character full circle and satisfying many longtime fans. (Baldwin also returned in PHANTASM OBLIVION and PHANTASM RAVAGER.
So PHANTASM PHANS we have to ask you. How did you react when you heard James Le Gros would play the role of Mike in PHANTASM 2??? Let us know on our official PHANTASM Instagram page!