Introduction

In a year that has proven challenging for Zachary Levi, the actor best known for his role in the superhero film *Shazam!*, he's facing severe backlash from a former co-star. Levi sparked controversy online by sharing conspiracy theories that alienated fans and fellow actors alike.

Laura Benanti's Revelations

Recently, in a candid interview on the podcast *That's a Gay Ass*, Laura Benanti, who shared the stage with Levi in the acclaimed Broadway revival of *She Loves Me*, revealed her true feelings about him. “I never liked him,” she stated bluntly. The talented actress, who played Amalia opposite Levi's Georg, reflected on their time together, saying, “Everyone was like, ‘He’s so great!’ And I was like, ‘No, he’s not. He’s sucking up all the f**king energy in this room.’”

Criticism of Levi's Personality

Benanti further criticized Levi's overbearing personality on set, suggesting he often interrupted to 'mansplain' aspects of the production to his co-stars. “He really sucked everybody in with his, like, dance party energy. Like, ‘We’re doing a dance party at half-hour.’ I was like, ‘Good luck. Have fun,’” she quipped.

Controversial Comments About Gavin Creel

The conversation grew even more intense as they recalled their late co-star Gavin Creel, who tragically passed away due to a rare cancer. Levi had previously made controversial comments attributing Creel’s death to potential side effects from the COVID-19 vaccine, further fueling outrage. “To use his memory for his political agenda... I was like, ‘F**k you forever,’” Benanti said, emphasizing her offense at Levi's tasteless remarks.

Levi's Career and Current Sentiments

Despite his storied career that includes roles in *Chuck*, *Shazam!*, and voicing Flynn Rider in Disney's *Tangled*, Levi reportedly feels jaded. A source close to the actor revealed that he is 'bitter' about not achieving the superstar status enjoyed by his contemporaries like Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans. His performance in *Shazam!* was viewed as a ticket to Hollywood success, but when the sequel *Shazam! Fury of the Gods* failed to resonate with audiences, Levi’s frustration boiled over.

Continued Controversies and Future Prospects

Levi's controversial views don't stop with the COVID-19 vaccine; his alignment with figures such as Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Donald Trump has solidified his reputation as a polarizing figure in the entertainment industry. His latest project, *Harold and the Purple Crayon*, has received mixed reviews, but it gained traction on social media, hinting that Levi still has a dedicated fan base despite the surrounding drama.

Conclusion

As Levi continues to navigate the fallout from his public statements and dwindling popularity, the question remains: Can he redeem himself and return to the superhero status fans once celebrated, or is this the beginning of a marked decline in his career? Only time will tell if he can turn things around in an ever-evolving Hollywood landscape.