Futurama Actor John DiMaggio Releases Statement On "Bendergate"

Actor John DiMaggio has released a new statement regarding what's happening with his contract negotiations to return as Bender in the Futurama reboot as part of what he called "Bendergate."

He wrote in a social media post that his holdout is indeed over pay. He said not only does he deserve more money, the rest of the cast does as well. "... just to be clear, I don't think that only I deserve to be paid more. I think the entire cast does. Negotiations are a natural part of working in show business," he said.

DiMaggio admitted that, in such contract negotiations, "everyone has a different strategy and different boundaries."

"Some accept offers, some hold their ground," DiMaggio said, adding that Bender the character is "part of my soul." He said nothing about his contract dispute is meant to be disrespectful to the fans of Futurama or his castmates.

"It's about self-respect," DiMaggio said. "And honestly, being tired of an industry that's become far too corporate and takes advantage of artist's time and talent."

DiMaggio ended his statement saying he wishes he could share further specifics about the pay dispute, but he admitted "it's not my place."

"Still hoping for the best," he said of his chances to return as Bender. According to reports, Bender's role might be recast of DiMaggio and management cannot come to terms over pay.

While DiMaggio might not be a lock to return just yet, the rest of the main cast are confirmed to be returning, including Billy West as Fry, Katey Sagal as Leela, Lauren Tom as Amy, and Phil LaMarr as Hermes. Series creator Matt Groening and writer David X. Cohen are returning as well.

Futurama earned six Emmy Awards--including two Outstanding Animated Program, seven Annie Awards, two Environmental Media Awards and two Writer’s Guild of America Awards.

Outside of the Futurama franchise, DiMaggio is known for voicing Marcus Fenix in Gears of War and Jake on Adventure Time. The new version of Futurama is in the works for Hulu but a release date hasn't been announced yet.