The role of Cassie Lang has been played by three actresses: Abby Ryder Fortson for the first two “Ant-Man” films, Emma Fuhrmann in “Avengers: Endgame,” and now Kathryn Newton.

The announcement of Newton’s casting in “Quantumania” surprised fans who expected Fuhrmann to return. While age played a factor in the decision, there were other reasons.

Director Peyton Reed explained he recast the role as he wanted someone “who could really hang with Paul Rudd and sort of not be left in the dust.”

He added, “She’s gotta be sharp, and quick, and funny. And also, [Newton] is an athlete. She’s a world-class golfer. She has the physicality for the role.”

“Quantumania” writer Jeff Loveness suggested Newton was selected due to her previous roles that demonstrated both her comedic and serious acting abilities.

Loveness highlighted the importance of casting someone who could “seem like Scott Lang’s daughter”; someone who could have Scott’s heart and sense of humor.

Reed emphasized the importance of showing Cassie’s changes over the years and how she differs from her dad on “what it might take to be a hero and what justice means in the world.”