Marvel Studios’ upcoming film, Avengers: Doomsday, set for release on May 1, 2026, promises a monumental crossover by integrating iconic X-Men characters into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Today, Marvel announced many actors who will be appearing in the film. This ensemble brings back several beloved actors reprising their roles from the original X-Men films, marking a significant moment for fans. Let’s take a look at who’s coming back…. so far.
Kelsey Grammer as Beast
Kelsey Grammer returns as Dr. Henry “Hank” McCoy, also known as Beast. Grammer first portrayed the brilliant scientist with superhuman agility and strength in X-Men: The Last Stand (2006). His character made a brief appearance in the MCU during a mid-credit scene in The Marvels, where he interacted with Monica Rambeau in a parallel universe.
Channing Tatum as Gambit
Channing Tatum is set to portray Remy LeBeau, better known as Gambit, a mutant with the ability to charge objects with kinetic energy, causing them to explode. Tatum’s involvement as Gambit has been long anticipated and he finally appeared in a Marvel Studios film last year with Deadpool and Wolverine, His inclusion in Avengers: Doomsday technically marks his official debut in the MCU’s sacred timeline.
Rebecca Romijn as Mystique
Rebecca Romijn reprises her role as Raven Darkhölme, or Mystique, a shapeshifting mutant known for her distinctive blue skin. Romijn portrayed Mystique in the original X-Men trilogy, bringing depth to the complex character.
Patrick Stewart as Professor X
Sir Patrick Stewart returns as Professor Charles Xavier, the powerful telepath and founder of the X-Men. Stewart’s portrayal has been central to the X-Men franchise, and he previously appeared in the MCU as an alternate-universe version of Professor X in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022).
Ian McKellen as Magneto
Sir Ian McKellen reprises his role as Erik Lehnsherr, known as Magneto, a mutant with the ability to manipulate magnetic fields. McKellen’s nuanced portrayal of Magneto has been a highlight of the X-Men series, and his return in Avengers: Doomsday is highly anticipated.
James Marsden as Cyclops
James Marsden returns as Scott Summers, or Cyclops, the field leader of the X-Men who can emit powerful optic blasts. Marsden’s portrayal of Cyclops in the original films established the character’s leadership and complexity, and and it should be very interesting seeing him work with the Avengers.
Alan Cumming as Nightcrawler
Alan Cumming reprises his role as Kurt Wagner, known as Nightcrawler, a teleporting mutant with a distinctive appearance and gentle demeanor. Cumming’s portrayal in X2: X-Men United (2003) was well-received, and fans are eager to see his return.
Until He’s 90…
The integration of these legendary X-Men characters into Avengers: Doomsday is a game-changer for the MCU, blending nostalgia with new storytelling opportunities. With Kelsey Grammer, Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen, and more reprising their iconic roles, Marvel is embracing its multiverse potential like never before. But this may only be the beginning—rumors are swirling about even more surprise castings, including potential appearances from Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine, Halle Berry’s Storm, and even a possible return for Famke Janssen’s Jean Grey. Could this film be setting the stage for the long-awaited full-fledged X-Men reboot within the MCU? Fans will have to wait for official confirmation, but one thing is certain: Avengers: Doomsday is shaping up to be the most ambitious crossover yet.
