Hugh Jackman has become the defining incarnation of Wolverine, having portrayed the legendary mutant since the inaugural X-Men film in 2000. Jackman’s latest appearance as Wolverine is set to unfold in Deadpool & Wolverine, slated for release in 2024, leading fans to ponder about his potential return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
Recent reports from EpicStream suggest that with Marvel’s forthcoming reboot of the X-Men franchise, the introduction of Wolverine seems to be a logical next step. Industry insider Daniel Richtman indicated that Marvel is considering keeping Jackman’s Wolverine around for additional projects even beyond Secret Wars, which is anticipated for a 2027 release.
The notion of Wolverine remaining in the MCU for an extended period aligns with the lighthearted quip from Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige, who jokingly remarked that Jackman might reprise his role as Wolverine “until he’s 90.” In Deadpool & Wolverine, the characters addressed unresolved matters left from Logan, with revelations that the version collaborating with Wade Wilson hails from an alternate universe rather than the original beloved Logan.
If the circulating rumors hold any truth, it suggests that Jackman’s Wolverine is likely to endure the events of the impending Avengers: Doomsday film. However, the specifics of Wolverine’s future involvement in the MCU remain shrouded in speculation. Potential pathways include his integration into a new Avengers team, engagement in crossovers with the Fantastic Four, or even a reunion with his Fox X-Men counterparts.
Back in July, Feige provided insights into the future of the MCU beyond Doomsday and Secret Wars, noting, “Secret Wars, similar to its comic origins, aims to conclude certain storylines while simultaneously launching new ones. We are already deep into development of the next saga, which is comprised of three phases. Importantly, the first phase is directly influenced by the projects and sequels we are currently working on.” Nevertheless, it remains uncertain whether Reynolds and Jackman will reprise their roles in any upcoming films.
While several actors from Fox’s original X-Men lineup are confirmed to return for Doomsday, actress Famke Janssen, known for her role as Jean Grey, expressed uncertainty regarding her involvement in Phase 6, stating, “I don’t really know the storyline, so I’m not sure. It’s not my world; it’s never been my world, really, that whole comic book world. I should know by now, I’ve been in it long enough. But I’m really excited to see when it comes out… Just like everyone else, I’ll find out what those storylines are and how it all ended up.” Notable returns for Doomsday include fan favorites such as Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen, Rebecca Romijn, James Marsden, Kelsey Grammer, and Alan Cumming.
Avengers: Doomsday is scheduled for release on December 18, 2026, followed by Secret Wars on December 17, 2027.
Based on reporting by CBR.com. Read the full story at CBR.com.