Deadpool & Wolverine has been a treat for the Marvel fans and a flying high at the box office. The movie surprised the viewers with some expected and some unexpected cameos. It has also been to some extent criticized that the Shawn Levy helmed movie brought so many characters. But, there is one actor James McAvoy, who has played Professor X in Deadpool 2 could not find a place in Deadpool & Wolverine though the X-Men leader was referenced.
James McAvoy, Who Played Professor X in Deadpool 2, Was Not In Deadpool & Wolverine
James McAvoy. Image Credit: 20th Century Studios
Some of James McAvoy’s X-Men franchise’s co-stars have made a special appearance in Deadpool & Wolverine. But McAvoy was not there and he said that he was not approached for it.
When 20th Century Fox decided to revisit the X-Men universe with a series of prequel films, James McAvoy was cast as the younger version of Professor Charles Xavier, previously portrayed by Sir Patrick Stewart. This decision marked a new chapter in the beloved franchise.
With the introduction of Cassandra Nova, Charles Xavier’s sinister twin, as the primary antagonist in Deadpool & Wolverine, many fans speculated about a potential appearance by an alternate version of the Professor. This speculation was fueled by the fact that trailers showcased Cassandra utilizing a wheelchair, a signature element associated with Charles Xavier.
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Despite these references to the X-Men leader, he was absent from the third film. At Comic-Con, McAvoy confirmed that he had not been approached for the role.
“It was known that I would be in the credits. A demand was made by me,” he humorously mentioned regarding the emotional tribute to 20th Century Fox’s Marvel films. Regarding a potential cameo as Professor X, McAvoy clarified, “No, no, no, no. Not this one. It is believed that any consideration for that role was dismissed before I was contacted, so no.” (Via Variety)
However, this doesn’t imply that McAvoy has entirely ruled out reprising his role as Charles Xavier.
“I have consistently expressed that if an excellent role presents itself, with an opportunity to narrate a compelling story, I am always interested, whether it is a role I have previously played or something entirely new,” McAvoy remarked.
“With good material, my interest is guaranteed. Always prepared! Actor ready! But it must be of high quality, and there must be a genuine desire to create it, so these are all just possibilities.”
Ultimately, the decision to revisit the character rests on the availability of a strong script and the desire of the filmmakers.
James McAvoy Open to Revisiting Professor X Role, But Not Expecting an Offer Soon
James McAvoy. Image Credit: 20th Century Studios
James McAvoy, renowned for his portrayal of Professor Charles Xavier in the X-Men prequel trilogy, has expressed a cautious optimism about reprising the iconic role. While the recent appearances of other X-Men cast members in the MCU’s Deadpool & Wolverine have ignited fan speculation, McAvoy remains grounded in reality.
Even though McAvoy did not join the roster of X-Men stars appearing in Deadpool & Wolverine, the MCU’s multiverse concept has left potential openings for his return. During a conversation with Screen Rant at San Diego Comic-Con, McAvoy discussed the likelihood of stepping back into Professor X’s shoes, whether through a multiverse cameo or as a distinct version of the character.
He expressed an interest in portraying a different iteration of Professor X, provided the script met his standards. Simultaneously, he believes Marvel may be shifting its focus away from the X-Men series post-Deadpool & Wolverine.
“As an actor, if I’m to revisit a character I’ve previously portrayed, it would need to be a new, differently reinterpreted, or newly explored version,” he mentioned. “The primary factor for me accepting any role is the quality of the script and the depth of the character, and that would have to apply. It’s also essential that the opportunity be offered, making this entirely speculative.”
Despite the tantalizing possibilities offered by the MCU’s multiverse, McAvoy believes that Marvel Studios is currently focused on new directions. “But I feel like they’re moving on, they’re doing new things, and they’re going to do great things. They always do.” He respects the studio’s creative vision and is excited to see where they take the franchise next. Ultimately, the actor’s decision to return as Professor X hinges on the strength of the script and the opportunity to bring a new dimension to the beloved character.
Deadpool & Wolverine is showing in theaters.
