The James Gunn last summer. And now, one high-profile candidate has taken himself out of the running for the gig.

During an appearance at the the rampant rumors that Marvel wants him to take over the "Guardians" franchise from Gunn. When asked if he had met with studio heads to discuss the possibility, Waititi said he "didn't really," adding that he didn't think it was appropriate for him to replace the dismissed director.

He explained:

"For me, those are James (Gunn)’s films. Going into something like that with his stamp all over his films, would be like going into someone’s house and saying 'Hey, I’m your new dad, and this is how we make peanut butter sandwiches now.' It feels kind of awkward."

We don't blame Waititi for feeling that way at all, and imagine many other directors share that sentiment, too, since Disney and Marvel Thor: Ragnarok" director said he has a great relationship with the folks from the MCU.

"I’m still hanging out with those guys (Marvel) and talking about new stuff," he told the TCA crowd. " ... I want to do another movie with them."

Here's hoping we see that one sooner than we see "Guardians 3" (if that flick ever materializes).

[via: Deadline]