Prepare for a mutant makeover! The X-Men are officially heading to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and the question on everyone's mind is: who will be the next Professor X and Kitty Pryde? The stars who previously brought these beloved characters to life on screen, James McAvoy and Elliot Page, have finally weighed in on the potential recasting – and their reactions might surprise you.
At a recent New York Comic Con (NYCC) panel dedicated to all things X-Men, McAvoy and Page openly discussed the possibility of new actors stepping into their iconic roles. Moderator Josh Horowitz even threw out a few names, including the acclaimed Colman Domingo and the rising star Bella Ramsey, sparking immediate fan speculation.
Elliot Page seemed genuinely enthusiastic about the prospect of a fresh take. "They sound fantastic, so exciting to see, you know, people to take on a new iteration," Page shared, radiating positivity.
James McAvoy echoed this sentiment, expressing his excitement for the future of the X-Men franchise within the MCU. "I'm excited to see what happens next. I was a fan before I was an employee, and then, no, you know, and I'll be a fan again,” he said, emphasizing his long-standing love for the X-Men universe.
McAvoy and Page shared the screen in X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014) and X-Men: Apocalypse (2016), both prequels to the original X-Men film that kicked off the mutant movie phenomenon back in 2000. These films delve into the lives of mutants navigating a modern world, constantly fighting to protect themselves and humanity from various threats. They offer a glimpse into the struggles and triumphs of being different in a world that often fears what it doesn't understand.
McAvoy specifically called out Colman Domingo as a potential replacement he'd be particularly interested in seeing. "Colman Domingo sounds amazing, though. He is great," McAvoy remarked. Domingo, known for his powerful performances in Fear the Walking Dead, Selma, and Lincoln, has been the subject of rumors suggesting Marvel might be considering him for the role of Professor X in the MCU's X-Men reboot. Which begs the question: Could Domingo bring a completely new dimension to the character, perhaps exploring different facets of Xavier's personality and motivations?
Remember, Professor X was initially portrayed by the legendary Patrick Stewart, who set the gold standard for the character. McAvoy stepped in to play a younger version of Charles Xavier in the prequels, including X-Men: First Class (2011). Stewart has publicly stated that he admires McAvoy's interpretation, and McAvoy has long been a vocal admirer of Stewart's work. This mutual respect highlights the importance of honoring the character's legacy while also embracing new interpretations.
McAvoy, the Scottish actor who has also graced the screen in Split, The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, and Atonement, brought a unique vulnerability and complexity to the young Professor X. Page, famous for roles in Juno, Inception, and The Umbrella Academy, skillfully portrayed Kitty Pryde's intelligence and unwavering loyalty.
Now, let's talk about the future. The MCU is gearing up for a highly anticipated X-Men movie, although concrete details and a release date are still shrouded in secrecy. Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige has teased that the X-Men are a crucial part of the MCU's future, stating, "... On the road to Secret Wars, we already know very well what the story will be up until then and beyond. The X-Men are an important part of that future." This confirms that the X-Men's arrival is not just a fleeting cameo, but a significant long-term investment in the MCU's overarching narrative.
Michael Lesslie (known for The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes) has been tapped to write the screenplay, and Jake Schreier, the director behind Thunderbolts, is reportedly being considered to helm the project. This creative team suggests that Marvel is aiming for a blend of established talent and fresh perspectives, promising a unique and exciting take on the X-Men mythos.
But here's where it gets controversial... Some fans argue that recasting iconic roles is a betrayal of the original actors and their performances. Others believe that a fresh start is necessary to integrate the X-Men seamlessly into the MCU. What do you think? Is it time for a new generation of mutants, or should Marvel stick closer to the established X-Men universe? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! Are you excited about the potential casting choices? What direction do you hope the MCU takes with the X-Men? We want to hear all your opinions!
