Ryan Coogler has confirmed that Jake Schreier, known for directing Thunderbolts, will be leading Marvel’s upcoming X-Men reboot, putting an end to speculation about who would take the helm. This Ryan Coogler X-Men director confirmation clarifies that Coogler himself will not direct, while Marvel Studios has yet to make its own official announcement.
Jake Schreier Steps In for X-Men Leadership
Jake Schreier, who recently directed Thunderbolts, is now set to direct X-Men for Marvel. Industry reports had previously hinted at this development, but neither Marvel Studios nor Kevin Feige have issued any public confirmation so far. Ryan Coogler was often picked by fans as a favorite for the role, but he recently made it clear that Schreier is in charge, noting during an Ironheart promotion that he would not be directing since, as he put it, “Jake is directing that.”
Coogler’s comments signal a significant level of trust from Marvel Studios head Kevin Feige toward Schreier, even though Thunderbolts has not performed well at the box office. As the second-worst performing Marvel Cinematic Universe film after The Marvels, Thunderbolts’ critical and commercial reception raises some skepticism about Schreier’s appointment for such an important franchise.
Feige’s Long-Term Vision for the X-Men
Kevin Feige, Marvel Studios’ president, has previously outlined ambitious plans for the MCU, revealing that Avengers: Secret Wars will begin what he described as—
“a new age of mutants and of the X-Men.”
This long-range vision reportedly spans the next decade. Marvel has already booked dates for four untitled films in 2028—February 18, May 5, November 10, and December 15—fueling speculation that at least one of these slots is reserved for an X-Men release. Despite the buzz, no actors have been officially announced for the project yet, and many casting rumors are circulating.
Reports claim that Feige and Disney CEO Bob Iger have differing ideas on the tone and focus of the X-Men reboot. Feige is said to prefer a film rich in social commentary, while Iger wants a more action-driven movie in the style of Deadpool & Wolverine, Spider-Man, and The Avengers.
Legacy Cast Members Return for Avengers: Doomsday
As part of Marvel’s multiverse approach, several original X-Men actors are confirmed to return in Avengers: Doomsday. Patrick Stewart will reprise his role as Xavier, Ian McKellen as Magneto, Rebecca Romijn as Mystique, James Marsden as Cyclops, and Alan Cumming as Nightcrawler, who has already teased major developments. Channing Tatum is set to return as Gambit from Deadpool & Wolverine, and rumors suggest Famke Janssen may reprise her role as Phoenix Jean Grey.
With Marvel’s X-Men reboot now moving forward under Jake Schreier’s direction, fans await further announcements regarding casting, story direction, and the film’s official release date. The project’s performance and critical response will likely shape the next era of Marvel’s mutant franchise on the big screen.
