Jeremy Renner, renowned for his roles in blockbuster franchises like "Mission Impossible" and the Marvel Cinematic Universe, has opened up about his decision to prioritize his daughter Ava over his acting career.
In a recent panel discussion following the premiere of his new show, "Rennervations," Jeremy Renner shed light on his departure from the "Mission Impossible" franchise. He disclosed that he chose to leave the lucrative franchise in order to prioritize his responsibilities as a father.
Renner's character, IMF agent William Brandt, appeared in two installments of the spy franchise, "Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol" and "Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation." However, he opted not to return for subsequent films.
In an interview with Collider, Renner explained, "I had to leave that. It requires a lot of time away. It’s all in London. I had to go be a dad. It just wasn't gonna work out then."
Renner is the father of an 11-year-old daughter named Ava, who he shares with his ex-wife Sonni Pacheco. He expressed his commitment to being present for Ava, saying, "I was supposed to do more with them. I love those guys. I love Tom so much. We had so much fun, and I love that character a lot."
Despite his initial departure, Renner hinted at the possibility of returning to the "Mission Impossible" franchise in the future, stating, "Maybe now that my daughter is older that could happen. I'd always jump into a ‘Mission: Impossible’ anytime and back into Brandt. It’s great."
Renner's decision to prioritize his daughter extended beyond "Mission Impossible." In 2021, he revealed to Men's Health magazine that he considered leaving his role as Clint Barton/Hawkeye in the Marvel Cinematic Universe due to the demanding filming schedule.
Renner explained that he flew from London to Los Angeles every weekend for a year and a half to see Ava, but often had limited time with her. He eventually gave Marvel executives an ultimatum, prioritizing his daughter over his career.
"I said, ‘Fine, recast me. I’m going to be here with my daughter.’ It was pretty gnarly,'" Renner said.
Ultimately, Renner and Marvel reached an agreement, allowing him to maintain his role while ensuring he could spend time with Ava.
"Acting and everything else goes out the window," Renner said. "Until my daughter says, ‘I want to hang out with my friends, and I don’t want to be around you so much, Daddy.’"
Renner has since resumed work after suffering severe injuries in a snowplow accident in January 2023. He credits his daughter with being a source of strength and support during his recovery.
"Happy 10th Birthday to you!!!! So very proud of you in every way. Your hugs and your love, have healed me so incredibly fast," he wrote on a photo of himself with Ava. "I stand up for you, and I am stronger than before because of you."
