'American Gods' Neil Gaiman Reacts To Joseph Gordon-Levitt's 'Sandman' Departure

Fans were understandably disappointed when it was announced that Joseph Gordon-Levitt had decided to bow out of the highly-anticipated film adaptation of The Sandman. However, it seems like the comic series creator Neil Gaiman is taking the loss pretty well.

Gordon-Levitt's departure was confirmed on Facebook on Saturday, and Gaiman immediately reacted on Twitter by retweeting the actor/director's announcement. In addition to that, Gaiman also expressed hope in being able to work with Gordon-Levitt in future projects. He also claimed that he still has respect for the Inception star, stating that he was happy to meet Gordon-Levitt and calling him "special."

Gaiman also confirmed that he has no power over what would happen for the planned film adaptation. He stated that the ownership of The Sandman belongs to DC Comics, so he is unable to choose who will work on the film.

And, for the record, my respect for @hitRECordJoe, is undiminished. Getting to know him was the best bit of the last round. He's special.

— Neil Gaiman (@neilhimself) March 5, 2016

Reminder for the curious: I don't own SANDMAN. @DCComics does. I don't choose who writes scripts, the director, producer or cast. — Neil Gaiman (@neilhimself) March 6, 2016

In addition to that, Gaiman also clarified that he never had ownership of The Sandman as part of the deal he signed with DC Comics when he was younger. However, he added that he did not regret the decision and is proud of the success and popularity of his works.

In the end, Gaiman stated that it did not matter if the film will push through, as he is happy with what the graphic novel series has accomplished.

"For me, what's important is the 2,500 pages of SANDMAN, not a movie that may or may not ever happen," he wrote.

There is no word yet on who will replace Gordon-Levitt in the Sandman film.