Jordan's Crown Affair Remake Hits Major Behind-Scenes Chaos
Production woes plague Michael B. Jordan's Thomas Crown Affair adaptation as costume controversies emerge following Taylor Russell's dramatic departure from the project.
Michael B. Jordan's modern take on The Thomas Crown Affair continues spiraling into controversy months after Taylor Russell's abrupt exit. Fresh allegations suggest the production cut corners on wardrobe, with insiders claiming costumes came straight off retail racks from Bottega rather than custom designs.
The costume drama feels particularly stinging given Ruth E. Carter's involvement. The Oscar-winning designer previously collaborated with Jordan on Black Panther and Sinners. Yet anonymous sources hint that cheap clothing represents just one problem plaguing the troubled set.
Russell's Mysterious Departure Sparks Speculation
Russell's July 2025 exit generated conflicting explanations. Official reports cited creative differences between the actress and Jordan, who doubles as director. Industry insider Jeff Sneider claimed Russell's first-day performance failed to impress, suggesting her acting "was not improving" throughout filming.
Fans rejected this narrative entirely. Social media erupted with allegations that Jordan made unwanted advances toward Russell, costing her the role when she declined. The speculation gained traction after March photos surfaced showing the pair together at a London cafe, sparking brief romance rumors.
Another source told entertainment outlets that Russell's departure stemmed from personal tensions with Jordan rather than script issues. "Something had happened between Taylor and Michael," they revealed. "The relationship was already strained" before cameras rolled.
Production Problems Mount
Jordan had expressed enthusiasm about reuniting with Carter last November. Speaking to Variety's Awards Circuit podcast, he described his vision as a "reimagination" rather than a reboot. "The first two films were about rich white guys stealing for fun. That doesn't land today. Ours is more personal," Jordan explained.
He promised the remake would retain "the fashion, romance" elements that defined earlier versions starring Steve McQueen and Pierce Brosnan. "Ruth [E. Carter] is the queen," Jordan added, praising his costume designer.
Those assurances now ring hollow as production faces mounting criticism. Fans connect the costume controversy directly to Russell's departure, viewing both as symptoms of deeper problems. "First they replace Taylor Russell now the styling won't hit like the original," one Twitter user complained.
Cast Changes and Future Concerns
Andor actress Adria Arjona stepped into Russell's role, joining a cast that includes Kenneth Branagh, Lily Gladstone, and Danai Gurira. September 2025 set photos showed Arjona filming alongside Jordan for the first time.
Russell moved on to other projects, including the 2026 Korean film Hope with Michael Fassbender and Alicia Vikander. She's also attached to a Single White Female remake opposite Jenna Ortega.
The Thomas Crown Affair remake faces a March 5, 2027 theatrical release. Whether Jordan can overcome the production controversies remains unclear as negative buzz continues building around the project.