Hugh Jackman made his much-anticipated entry into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) last year, portraying Wolverine. There is a viable way for him to continue as Logan while allowing a new version of the character to emerge simultaneously. Jackman’s journey as Wolverine began in 2000 with the launch of Fox’s X-Men series. Surprisingly, he was not the first choice for the role; the studio initially selected Dougray Scott, known for his work in Batgirl. However, due to scheduling conflicts, Jackman stepped in at the last minute, and history has been made since then.
Currently, Jackman stands as one of the most cherished faces in superhero cinema. It comes as no shock that Deadpool & Wolverine has turned into one of the MCU’s top cinematic successes, both critically and commercially. At 56 years old, I firmly believe that Jackman can still thrive as Wolverine within the MCU, especially considering his impressive physique showcased in Deadpool & Wolverine. While some fans advocate for a fresh take on Wolverine in the upcoming X-Men film, the franchise could effectively explore both options.
New Casting Insights for the MCU’s X-Men
Development of a Rebooted X-Men Film
Marvel Studios is currently focused on developing a reboot of the beloved X-Men franchise. The last major X-Men installment, Dark Phoenix, hit theaters in 2019. As we approach the conclusion of the Multiverse Saga, culminating with Avengers: Secret Wars in 2027, fans can anticipate the MCU’s first live-action X-Men movie soon thereafter. To advance this vision, the studio has already recruited The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes writer Michael Lesslie for script duties. Reports indicate that the project will lean towards a female-centric storyline, hinting at intriguing dynamics within the team.
In a new report, insider Jeff Sneider revealed the following: “Sadie Sink [is] in line to be Jean Grey… Stranger Things wrapping up next year, her schedule is pretty free after that. Those kids are gonna be red hot, and Marvel, as we all know, chases heat, right?”— Screen Rant (@screenrant) December 24, 2024
Per insider reports, Marvel is considering Stranger Things star Sadie Sink for the role of Jean Grey in its upcoming X-Men flick. This casting choice makes sense, as Sink’s appearance aligns well with the character, and she is swiftly emerging as a prominent talent. However, the implications of a younger Jean Grey suggest the necessity for casting a younger Wolverine to maintain narrative cohesion.Jackman, at 56, contrasts starkly with Sink’s 22 years, indicating the potential for a generational shift within the team.
Embracing Hugh Jackman as the MCU’s Old Man Logan
Exploring Dual Versions of Wolverine
While the casting direction leads toward a younger Wolverine, there’s a strong argument for Jackman to continue depicting the character within a different context. The MCU could indeed introduce two iterations of Wolverine simultaneously: a younger actor might take center stage in the X-Men reboot, while Jackman can reprise his role in a mature capacity during crossover events. In Marvel Comics, both Wolverine and Old Man Logan have coexisted, engaging in narratives together.
Watch Wolverine’s Journey
Jackman has previously demonstrated his capacity to portray an older version of Wolverine effectively. His performance in 2017’s Logan was a poignant and compelling representation of a weary, battle-hardened Logan trying to protect Dafne Keen’s character, Laura. In Deadpool & Wolverine, Jackman also explored a version of Old Man Logan that remained true to his comic counterpart. The MCU may find success in blending these two portrayals, allowing Jackman to serve as a veteran Wolverine in significant narrative arcs while introducing a younger Logan in the X-Men films.
The Imperative of Keeping Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine Alive in the MCU
The Beginning of a New Chapter with Deadpool & Wolverine
Having two Wolverines could be an optimal strategy for the MCU. This would allow for a fresh narrative canvas for the X-Men, differentiating it from the previous Fox iterations, while simultaneously retaining Hugh Jackman’s iconic presence.Deadpool & Wolverine has demonstrated Jackman’s enduring appeal, becoming the highest-grossing R-rated film in history and marking Marvel Studios’ return to the billion-dollar club since Spider-Man: No Way Home in 2021.
Before joining the MCU, Jackman expressed a desire to interact with the Avengers. Given the imminent arrival of major crossover team films, I have confidence that we will see Jackman reprise his role in at least Avengers: Secret Wars, potentially both upcoming films. It seems unlikely that continuous appearances would diminish fans’ enthusiasm for Jackman’s Wolverine. With a multitude of crossover opportunities and rich storylines at their disposal, I hope Marvel fully capitalizes on the potential Jackman’s Wolverine can bring, while introducing a younger version for the future of the X-Men.
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