The X-Men are finally coming to crash into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and one of the most debated questions on every fan’s mind is: who’s going to play Rogue? She’s not merely another mutant—she’s one of Marvel’s most legendary characters, with her touch that absorbs, Southern attitude, and a past that flips between villain and hero. Rogue right could establish the tone for the X-Men’s future in the MCU. Anna Paquin provided us with a take on the Fox movies, but it’s time for something new now. Fans are already abuzz with dream castings, so let’s work through 14 actresses who could own the role and bring Rogue to life in the MCU.
14. Maya Hawke
Owing to Stranger Things and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Maya Hawke has established herself as an actress who can play complex, interesting characters. She possesses the perfect balance of edge and sensitivity to infuse Rogue with a cool new twist. A younger, somewhat unexpected choice, she might establish a new identity for the character.
13. Brianne Howey
Brianne Howey (Ginny & Georgia) has proven she can balance charm, drama, and steel—all attributes Rogue requires. She’s still an unknown to the masses, making her an ideal Marvel-style breakout candidate. With her, the MCU may delve into Rogue’s darker, villainous beginnings in ways the Fox movies never even pretended.
12. Lily Rabe
Most famous for American Horror Story, Lily Rabe has gravitas and unpredictability to her acting. Her genuine Southern drawl is a big bonus, and she can veer easily between vulnerable and threatening. She’d have a grounded but magnetic presence in Rogue.
11. Evan Rachel Wood
In Westworld, Evan Rachel Wood’s wide-eyed naivety gave way to ruthless ambition in the span of a heartbeat—precisely the sort of versatility Rogue requires. Her talent for embodying transformation makes her an intriguing casting choice for a character marked by stolen abilities and shifting personas.
10. Victoria Pedretti
Victoria Pedretti (You, The Haunting of Hill House) excels at playing characters that are on the edge between vulnerable and fierce. That emotional intensity would be ideal for Rogue, bringing out the ongoing struggle between her powers and humanity.
9. Elizabeth Gillies
Elizabeth Gillies (Dynasty, Victorious) oozes charisma and has the skill set to pull off snappily dressed, complicated women. Rogue requires a performer who can dominate the screen, and Gillies’ combination of wit and intensity might just turn her into a scene-stealer in the MCU.
8. Ariel Winter
Best recognized as Alex on Modern Family, Ariel Winter may not be the most likely candidate—but that’s a big part of what’s so fascinating. She’s the perfect age for an extended MCU stint and has the talent to shock audiences with a brasher, breakout turn.
7. Lily James
From Cinderella to Pam & Tommy, Lily James has proved she can reinvent herself entirely based on the character. She has both vulnerability and strength, along with an undeniable screen presence. She’d add a sophisticated but fiery edge to Rogue.
6. Lauren Cohan
Lauren Cohan played The Walking Dead for years with grit and heart, and her Southern heritage makes her a natural fit. She’s already familiar with morally ambiguous storytelling, and her toughness would be perfect for a fiercely authentic Rogue.
5. Anya Taylor-Joy
Anya Taylor-Joy has essentially become Hollywood’s MVP, as The Queen’s Gambit and The Witch attest to her depth. She’s already been Magik in The New Mutants, but the confidence, quirky energy, and stardom would make her a Rogue for the ages.
4. Lily Collins
Between Emily in Paris and more dramatic roles, Lily Collins has proven she can walk the line between charm and substance. She’d infuse Rogue with a fashionable young energy and could keep the character going through several MCU phases.
3. Keke Palmer
Keke Palmer is not only a fan favorite—she’s self-nominating for the role. With Nope establishing her blockbuster chops and her natural charm, she’s already built a compelling argument. Palmer’s energy and conviction could make her Rogue one of the most iconic mutants in the MCU.
2. Grace Caroline Currey
Just off Shazam! Fury of the Gods, Grace Caroline Currey already has superhero credentials. She’s got the right look, the build, and Marvel’s favorite spice: momentum. She’d be a seamless addition to the X-Men roster.
1. Alexandra Daddario
Alexandra Daddario heads up many fan-casting lists, and rightly so. With her sharp presence on True Detective and The White Lotus, she’s got the star power and fierceness Rogue requires. Fans figure this might be her breakout role at last, and she has the potential to give the ultimate MCU take on the character.
With so many high-profile contenders, Marvel has plenty of choices. Whoever gets the part, Rogue’s MCU debut will surely be one of the most intriguing—and controversial—casting decisions in years.