Let’s face it: Cyclops has always gotten shortchanged on screen. In comics, Scott Summers is the emotional center and leader of the X-Men, but on live-action adaptations, he’s usually been upstaged by Wolverine’s brooding charisma or shoved aside by larger-than-life personalities. With Marvel Studios finally ready to introduce the mutants to the MCU, the spotlight is turning to Cyclops.
The million-dollar question: who’s going to wear the visor this time? Scoopers, fans, and casting speculation have been off the charts, so let’s dissect 10 of the names that are creating the most buzz, beginning with the dark horses and working our way up to the favorite.
10. Sam Nivola – The Fresh Face
Sam Nivola may not be a star yet, but he’s gaining a lot of steam as one of the young actors breaking into Hollywood. His fans note that his youthfulness may actually be an advantage, if Marvel is looking for a Cyclops who will be growing up with the franchise for a decade, Nivola’s youthful exuberance may be just what they need. Coupling him with a young Jean Grey would also provide Marvel’s X-Men with an accessible emotional center from the beginning.
9. Jack Champion – The Franchise Veteran-in-Training
Since his role in Avatar: The Way of Water, Jack Champion’s name has come up frequently in fan communities. He’s even addressed the speculation himself, making light of the fact that although the casting rumor is new to him, he’d love to play the part. With experience in blockbusters and the wholesomeness fans desire for Scott Summers, Champion has the right mix Marvel could shape into their Cyclops.
8. Tye Sheridan – The Do-Over
Sheridan already played Cyclops in Fox’s later X-Men movies, though the scripts never really gave him a chance to shine. Some fans argue he deserves a second shot, this time with the MCU’s top-tier writing and direction. He’s still the right age for a long-term role, and with a stronger creative team behind him, Sheridan could finally show audiences the Cyclops comic fans have always known.
7. Jensen Ackles – The Fan Favorite
Whenever fancasts arise, Jensen Ackles is often among the names on the list. He even once attempted to put on a Cyclops visor at Comic-Con, immediately looking the part. With Supernatural and The Boys already under his belt, Ackles has demonstrated that he can be tough, have heart, and have charisma all at once. He’s older than some of the contenders, perhaps, but if Marvel wants a more experienced and serious Cyclops, he’s the obvious choice.
6. Jacob Elordi – The Towering Pick
At 6’5″, Jacob Elordi would be one of the tallest actors to ever play the part. His work in Euphoria and Priscilla demonstrates that he can handle complex characters, oscillating from vulnerability to intensity. Elordi would also command a presence opposite whatever actor Marvel casts as Wolverine, making their inevitable feud even more melodramatic.
5. Robbie Amell – The Action-Ready Choice
Robbie Amell has already dipped his toes into superheroes with Arrowverse and sci-fi roles like Code 8. Having both the physicality and charisma required to front a team, he might bring some much-needed balance of command and warmth to Cyclops. And his comedic timing in Upload proves he could add just enough levity to make Scott relatable without losing his bite.
4. Dylan O’Brien – The Natural Leader
Fans have been projecting Dylan O’Brien as a superhero for years, and Cyclops seems like an especially good match. Most recognized for The Maze Runner, O’Brien has shown that he can support an action-filled story while still getting the audience to care about him. His combination of charm and authenticity could finally make Scott Summers the emotional center of the X-Men.
3. Sam Claflin – The Chameleon
Claflin’s versatility is what sets him apart. From the chivalrous Mycroft Holmes in Enola Holmes to the multifaceted Finnick Odair in The Hunger Games, he can seamlessly transition between stern and witty. Cyclops in the comic books tends to balance duty with his life outside of duty, and Claflin could personify that balance to perfection.
2. Henry Cavill – The Heavy Hitter
Yes, Cavill has already been Superman, but his name continues to be mentioned for Cyclops, and not without cause. He possesses the superhero stature, leadership presence, and emotional range needed to put Scott Summers in the spotlight. If Marvel is serious about making a point that Cyclops is long overdue to be a leading man, Cavill would be a strong statement.
1. Glen Powell – The People’s Choice
Following Top Gun: Maverick, Glen Powell’s popularity soared, and he’s been the most popular fan choice for Cyclops ever since. He possesses the confidence, charisma, and natural leadership abilities that suit Scott Summers perfectly. With the proper writing, Powell can finally give us the version of Cyclops that does justice to the decades-long comic book heritage.
Whether Marvel chooses an unproven upstart or a proven A-lister, the secret is easy: Scott Summers is owed his time. He’s better than he’s given credit for as a love triangle filler or Wolverine antagonist; he’s the X-Men’s foundation. And with the reboot of the MCU, it at last seems like his moment to emerge from the shadows has come.