As the Marvel Cinematic Universe gears up to relaunch the X-Men movie franchise, there’s been widespread fan conjecture about who might be cast in the new films. One of the most talked-about suggestions has been Daniel Radcliffe taking on the role of Wolverine, a character that Hugh Jackman has iconically portrayed since the X-Men movie in 2000.
Even though Jackman stepped back from the role after 2017, he reprised his Wolverine character in the 2024 movie Deadpool & Wolverine. Similarly, several of his X-Men co-stars are expected to return in Avengers: Doomsday.
Nevertheless, the overarching strategy includes a plan to recast the superhero team with new actors for future generations, following Avengers: Doomsday and its sequel, Avengers: Secret Wars. Amid these plans, Radcliffe recently addressed the rumors about him playing Wolverine during an interview with ComicBook.
Radcliffe described the speculation as “a very flattering internet rumor,” clarifying that “it was never real.“ He added, “No one in a position of authority ever suggested it, and honestly, it would be foolish not to consider such a role.”
However, Radcliffe also noted a significant deterrent regarding the role of Wolverine: Jackman himself. “Being the person to follow Hugh Jackman, especially for such an iconic role, is not something I’m eager to do,” he remarked. “I’m perfectly happy letting him continue with that part.“
Previously, Radcliffe discussed with Screen Rant the possibility of joining either the MCU or the competing DC Universe in a superhero role. Once again, he denied having any immediate plans to do so but didn’t close the door completely on future opportunities.
“Given my build, I’d naturally fit a role like Spider-Man,” joked the Harry Potter star. “Unless they’re planning a Spider-Geriatric-Man at some point, that ship has sailed. But seriously, I’m open to unique scripts that are cool and different, though there’s been no truth to any rumors so far.”
He also mentioned that Wolverine is the “classic” character he’s most often asked about. Radcliffe explained, “People still approach me to ask if it’s really happening, and I have to tell them it’s not.” Despite the fan interest, he reiterated that there have been no official discussions about him joining the MCU.
While Radcliffe seems to have shut the door on playing Wolverine or any other superhero role for now, he remains open-minded about future possibilities, emphasizing that he evaluates any potential job based on the script’s quality.
Ava Thornton is an entertainment journalist with a keen eye for the latest in Hollywood, indie films, and streaming trends.
Her work blends insider knowledge with a deep appreciation for storytelling.
