The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) continues to evolve with exciting possibilities for its mutant heroes following the monumental success of Deadpool & Wolverine, which grossed over $1 billion at the global box office last summer. While Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige has remained tight-lipped, only hinting at “discussions” regarding the future of Deadpool and Wolverine, speculation is mounting about Ryan Reynolds reprising his role as Deadpool in the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday, a film expected to feature a significant X-Men presence. Questions also swirl around Hugh Jackman’s potential involvement in Avengers: Doomsday or Avengers: Secret Wars, but the latest rumors suggest his Wolverine could play a much larger role in the MCU’s future.
According to insider Daniel Richtman (via Superhero Hype), Jackman’s Wolverine is poised to remain a key figure in the MCU, with plans for the actor to appear in “more projects even after [Avengers: Secret Wars].” This revelation points to a long-term commitment to Jackman’s iconic portrayal of the clawed mutant, potentially extending into the next era of the MCU following the conclusion of the Multiverse Saga. With the X-Men reboot expected to be one of the first major films in this new phase, Jackman’s continued presence could redefine how Marvel integrates its mutant characters.
The idea of Jackman appearing in Avengers: Secret Wars aligns with expectations, as the film is rumored to feature an array of Marvel heroes from across the multiverse. However, the prospect of Jackman continuing beyond this event is particularly intriguing. The X-Men reboot, reportedly under the direction of Jake Schreier, is said to prioritize younger, lesser-known actors to manage production costs and establish a fresh mutant lineup. This approach would allow Marvel to move on from veteran Fox X-Men actors after their anticipated appearances in Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars. Yet, Jackman’s Wolverine stands out as an exception due to his established role in the MCU, introduced through Deadpool & Wolverine.
Jackman’s Wolverine, a new variant introduced in Deadpool & Wolverine, has solidified his status as the definitive on-screen portrayal of the character. Having played Wolverine since 2000’s X-Men, Jackman has become synonymous with the role, making it challenging to envision another actor stepping into his shoes. Rather than casting a new actor to follow his iconic performance, Marvel could leverage Jackman’s established presence, potentially positioning him as a mentor to a younger generation of mutants in the X-Men reboot. This direction would align with his character arc in Deadpool & Wolverine, where Wolverine, initially burdened by past failures, rediscovers his purpose as part of a team.
A mentorship role for Jackman’s Wolverine could offer a compelling narrative thread, allowing him to guide new mutants while continuing to engage in the high-octane action sequences he’s known for. At 57, Jackman remains in excellent physical condition, capable of handling the demands of the role. However, acknowledging his age, Marvel is likely considering a succession plan. One potential solution lies in Dafne Keen’s portrayal of Laura/X-23, who returned in Deadpool & Wolverine. Keen’s performance demonstrated her ability to carry the Wolverine mantle, offering a seamless way to transition the character without recasting. While Keen’s future in the MCU remains unconfirmed, her inclusion could ensure the Wolverine legacy continues beyond Jackman’s tenure.
The integration of Jackman’s Wolverine into the MCU’s next phase signals Marvel’s intent to balance legacy characters with fresh faces. By retaining Jackman, Marvel can maintain continuity with Deadpool & Wolverine while building a new X-Men era. The reboot’s focus on younger actors suggests a long-term vision for the franchise, with Jackman’s Wolverine serving as a bridge between the old and new.
Avengers: Doomsday is slated for release on May 1, 2026, followed by Avengers: Secret Wars on May 7, 2027, setting the stage for the culmination of the Multiverse Saga and the potential continuation of Jackman’s Wolverine in the MCU.
