Terminally Ill Marvel Fan Gets to Watch 'Avengers: Endgame' Early Thanks to Chris Hemsworth
By Jennifer Fabiano
A terminally ill Marvel fan is going to be able to screen Avengers: Endgame before it is released in theaters on April 26, 2019, and Chris Hemsworth may have everything to do with it.
On Jan. 5, a Reddit user known just as Alexander wrote a post on the Marvel Studios subreddit entitled "Dying Before April: My Endgame," in which he asked for suggestions on how he could see the movie before April, in case he doesn't live to see it in theaters.
“Liver cancer, mouth cancer, bone marrow failure," Alexander wrote. Will probably be dead before April. I've heard of people getting early screenings before. How do I get in on this action?” The 33-year-old Australian also explained that his sister died three years ago to the same genetic disease.
"I'll leave behind a devoted girlfriend and an adopted greyhound,” he wrote. “I thought I'd make it to April at least but my bone marrow is toast. Any suggestions?"
Many users on Reddit contacted Avengers directors Anthony and Joe Russo in attempts to make them aware of Alexander’s message. The hashtag “#Avengers4Alexander” quickly spread on the platform.
As awareness of Alexander’s cause grew, he shared that a Marvel actor was being contacted. "Also, because Australia is a small place, turns out I know a guy who knows a guy who is chums with Chris Hemsworth. I think they called him tonight on my behalf," Alexander wrote. He continued to post updates as the day went on, labeling each as an edit to his original post.
"I've had messages from people hinting that Marvel higher ups are aware of me and are preparing something," he wrote in his second edit. In the third, Alexander thanked all those that spread his wish, and assured he wants nothing but to see the final Avengers film before it’s too late.
“A few commenters have offered financial support. I’ve told them that money isn’t my problem, just time. Instead I’d like to direct you to donate money for research into my genetic disease, Fanconi Anemia,” Alexander wrote.
In his fourth edit, Alexander announced his goal was thankfully on its way to coming true. “Disney have reaches out and we are discussing options. I cried when I read their email. It’s everything I hoped for and I owe it to all you,” he wrote. Hemsworth has not commented publicly on the ordeal, however we're sure he's happy he was able to help a fan in need.