The X-Men are finally joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and Marvel Studios’ highly anticipated reboot can mean only one thing: fresh faces for some of the greatest heroes in comic book history. Kevin Feige has hinted at a younger roster and a new direction, which has fans abuzz with theories and wishcasts. So who should fill these legendary roles? Here’s our top 10 list of the best X-Men recastings that can shape Marvel’s new era of mutants.
10. Sadie Sink as Jean Grey
Sadie Sink has already demonstrated that she can play emotionally demanding characters after her breakout performances in Stranger Things and The Whale. With her effortless appearance and skill at portraying both vulnerability and searing ferocity, she’d be the perfect Jean Grey. Fans have been guessing as to what role she might play in the Marvel universe ever since she became a part of Spider-Man: Brand New Day in a covert role—casting her as Jean would be the ultimate reward.
9. Patrick Schwarzenegger as Cyclops
Cyclops is due for more respect than he’s received in previous movies, and Patrick Schwarzenegger might finally get it right. Between The White Lotus and Gen V, he’s had time to show that he can play serious, complex characters. With leadership skills and appearance to match Scott Summers, Schwarzenegger might provide the ultimate Cyclops that fans have always dreamed of.
8. Brandon Flynn as Iceman
Bobby Drake has one of the coolest character arcs in Marvel Comics, from prankster to openly gay superhero. Brandon Flynn (13 Reasons Why) would infuse the role with authenticity and charm. With his youthful vigor and emotional depth, Flynn would be the ideal actor to provide Iceman with his long-overdue shine.
7. Miya Cech as Jubilee
Jubilee has never quite received her due in live-action, but Miya Cech might turn that around. At only 18, she’s already made waves with Beef and Marvelous and the Black Hole. With natural charm and comedic chops, Cech might turn Jubilee into the gateway for the audience into the MCU’s mutant universe.
6. Keke Palmer as Rogue
Keke Palmer has spoken fondly of Rogue, even cosplaying as her on social media. Having stolen scenes in Nope and Scream Queens, she’s now more than equipped to handle the Southern mutant. Palmer’s blend of humor, intensity, and emotional depth would make her Rogue unforgettable.
5. Austin Butler as Gambit
Gambit has waited long enough for the proper big-screen introduction. Austin Butler, coming off Elvis and Dune: Part Two, has the charisma, physicality, and charm to finally bring the Cajun mutant that fans have dreamed of for so many decades. Butler might bring the right mix of swagger to Remy LeBeau, and also his deeper emotional depth.
4. Jayme Lawson as Storm
Storm is Marvel’s most powerful hero, and she needs an actress who can portray that grandeur. Jayme Lawson (The Batman, The Woman King) has the presence and screen presence to present Ororo Munroe as larger than life. With her authoritative energy, she could play the regal, goddess-like Storm that fans have always envisioned.
3. Jesse Plemons as Beast
Hank McCoy requires an actor who will be able to juggle brains and heart, and Jesse Plemons is the fan favorite for a reason. Whether it’s on Fargo or Killers of the Flower Moon, Plemons is always delivering complex performances. As Beast, he might be able to bring both intellectual weight and warmth to the group.
2. Sydney Sweeney as Emma Frost
Sydney Sweeney’s Marvel introduction in Madame Web didn’t pan out, but she’s still owed a chance. With tour-de-force performances in Euphoria and The White Lotus, she’s proven that she can pull off self-assured, messy women—and that’s Emma Frost to the letter. Sweeney might finally give the White Queen the depth and notice she’s long deserved.
1. Taron Egerton as Wolverine
The most difficult character to replace is, undoubtedly, Wolverine. But Taron Egerton seems like the ideal replacement for Hugh Jackman. Shorter and stouter than the comic book version, Egerton has demonstrated in Kingsman and Black Bird that he can play both raw physicality and emotional depth. He’s even confirmed he’s spoken with Marvel about doing it. Egerton might introduce a new but loyal interpretation of Logan.
Honorable Mentions: Daniel Craig as Professor X & Adrien Brody as Magneto
Although the core cast is going young, Xavier and Magneto require older, more experienced performers. Daniel Craig would be able to lend calm authority and intellect to Professor X, while Adrien Brody’s intensity and background would translate to a rich, authentic Magneto. Victoria Pedretti, Jason Isaacs, Julia Butters, Mark Strong, Brenton Thwaites, and Glen Powell are also fan favorites—but Craig and Brody are casting coups.
With Marvel’s reboot coming on the heels of Avengers: Secret Wars, the pieces are in place for a new, bold mutant era. The lone question remaining: which of these dream castings will become a reality?