Editor’s Note: This article contains spoilers for Captain America: Brave New World.

The casting of Liv Tyler as Betty Ross in <em>Captain America: Brave New World</em> has been one of the most exciting developments leading up to the film’s release. This marks her return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe after more than a decade since her last appearance in 2008?s The Incredible Hulk. Fans are eager to see her reconnect with her on-screen father, now portrayed by Harrison Ford, who stepped into the role originally played by the late William Hurt. However, director Julius Onah faced significant challenges in bringing Tyler back, revealing that the process required considerable effort and dedication. During an insightful conversation with Collider’s Steve Weintraub, Onah shared the personal approach he took to persuade Tyler to return to this beloved franchise.

?We knew Liv was willing to come back when I had a Zoom with her,? Onah recounted with a chuckle. ?You dream these things, you work these things out, but then you just have to actually go talk to the human being.? Given that Tyler had stepped back from acting in recent years, Onah knew that reaching out was not a guaranteed success. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that she felt excited and aligned with the vision for the film. He elaborated further to Collider:

?She had taken a bit of a step back from acting, focusing on other things in her life, and she’s such an incredible human being. But I just went and did a Zoom and had a very honest conversation with her, like I did with every other actor who was going to become involved, as to emotionally and thematically what this movie was trying to accomplish and why I thought it would be worth their time and their talents. Luckily, she responded.?

Confirming Liv Tyler’s Return Early Was Essential for Film Development

The timing of Onah?s conversation with Tyler was pivotal. He clarified that securing her participation had to be done early in the development phase, allowing ample time for her character to be seamlessly integrated into the storyline. He explained:

?It was right during the development process. I think I had the Zoom with her probably in early 2023 because it takes time to make a deal and prep and all that other stuff. So, it had to be well in advance so that if for some reason it wasn?t going to work out, whether scheduling or whatnot, we would have the opportunity to make another choice or decision.?

Tyler?s return adds significant emotional depth to Brave New World, especially as the film delves into her father’s transformation into the Red Hulk and his struggles with their strained relationship. Her role also aligns with Marvel’s recent trend of revisiting themes and characters from The Incredible Hulk, as Tim Blake Nelson reprises his role as Samuel Sterns, who has now fully evolved into The Leader. This not only enriches the narrative but also creates a bridge to the franchise’s earlier installments.

Captain America: Brave New World is currently showing in theaters. For the latest updates and in-depth analysis, stay tuned to Collider.