Because all black people look the same ...

... To studio execs.

The Hollywood Reporter, er, reports, that Don Cheadle has signed up to replace Terrence Howard as Jim Rhodes (War Machine) in the sequel to this summer's blockbuster comic adaptation, Iron Man.

Listen, everyone loves Don Cheadle, but did Marvel execs really feel Terrence Howard was expendable? Sure Cheadle has an Oscar and Howard's only been nominated, but you can't exactly replace Cate Blanchett with Ellen Page just because they're both white chicks. Howard had the right look and the right attitude, and most importantly he was great in Iron Man. We're not exactly talking Katie Holmes here.

Rumors suggest "financial differences" were the main reason behind the casting change -- amongst other unidentified issues. Which would be what exactly? They didn't feel like paying a black actor enough to keep him around? They're shelling out for Gwyneth Paltrow, and the only thing she's done lately is pop out a few Coldplay kids.

Besides, considering how much this sequel is sure to make, there's no reason to be stingy.

Terrence Howard is more than capable of carrying a big studio film. He's handsome, well-built, and though he has a bitchy reputation (who in hollywood doesn't?), he has the personality to pull off a super hero. Does Don Cheadle?

Hopefully more details will come out about this completely unnecessary change up. Until then we're waiting for answers -- and hope you will too.