The buzz around Avengers: Doomsday keeps growing, especially with talk of classic X-Men characters possibly joining the MCU. While Nathan Fillion has gained attention for his Marvel roles and work on The Rookie, many fans believe it’s his co-star Shawn Ashmore—famous for playing Iceman—who truly deserves a spot in the upcoming Marvel blockbuster. With the Nathan Fillion Avengers Doomsday Marvel Star conversation heating up, a returning Bobby Drake could be the game-changer fans want to see.
Shawn Ashmore’s Journey From The Rookie to Marvel’s Iceman
In recent years, Shawn Ashmore has impressed audiences as attorney Wesley Evers on ABC’s hit series The Rookie. Before this television success, Ashmore stole the show as Bobby Drake, better known as Iceman, in the original X-Men trilogy. Introduced in the year 2000 with the debut of the X-Men film, he became known as the “coolest mutant” for good reason.
Audiences quickly embraced Ashmore’s portrayal of Iceman. His on-screen chemistry with fellow mutant Rogue, played by Anna Paquin, stood out in the trilogy. Ashmore’s journey as Bobby Drake spanned from his first steps as a shy mutant teenager to his heroic evolution in sequels X2 and X-Men: The Last Stand.
The actor didn’t stop there—he reprised Iceman in X-Men: Days of Future Past, offering fans a glimpse of Drake’s abilities at their peak. This continuity over several X-Men movies helped build one of the most memorable portrayals in the franchise, leaving a lasting impression on audiences.
Currently, Ashmore’s steady role on The Rookie continues to show his strong on-screen presence, captivating new audiences while reminding longtime fans of his history as Iceman. With Marvel preparing the ground for mutants in the MCU, the moment seems ideal for Ashmore’s return.
Why Bobby Drake Belongs in Avengers: Doomsday
The stakes are higher than ever as Avengers: Doomsday approaches, with Doctor Doom threatening Earth’s mightiest heroes in what could be their toughest battle yet. Including Bobby Drake in the superhero line-up would not only excite X-Men fans, but also bring a fresh and powerful dynamic to the MCU. Ashmore’s tenure as Iceman was acknowledged but never fully explored; this is the chance to showcase the character’s true potential.
The X-Men movies, while touching on Iceman’s complicated relationship with Rogue, often missed the opportunity to highlight his status as one of the most powerful mutants to study at Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters. Only in X-Men: Days of Future Past do audiences see Iceman wield his powers at full strength, transforming himself and the environment with his ice-based talents.
Bobby Drake is no ordinary mutant. Labeled as an Omega-level mutant, he holds one of the highest power rankings in the Marvel Universe. His capacity to manipulate ice and moisture, generate massive ice constructs, and alter his own form positions him as a formidable ally in the fight against villains like Doctor Doom. The action-packed battles of the latest Avengers film could truly benefit from such an asset.
Ashmore’s work goes beyond the Marvel universe. He has also proved his versatility in superhero roles, notably playing Lamplighter in The Boys. His ability to portray layered and complex heroes gives him credibility as someone capable of making Bobby Drake relevant again in a new chapter of comic book films.
Returning Fan Favorites and the MCU’s Expanding Universe
Marvel has already set expectations high by confirming the return of legendary cast members from the Fox X-Men universe, including Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen, and Kelsey Grammer. Amidst such iconic superheroes, considerations are being made about who else should join these ranks. For many long-time followers of the franchise, the answer is clear: bring back Shawn Ashmore’s Iceman.
Fans have argued that Ashmore’s previous performances in X-Men and his career since then, especially his role as Wesley Evers, illustrate his lasting appeal and suitability for a pivotal spot in Avengers: Doomsday. The addition of an Omega-level mutant like Bobby Drake could provide the edge needed in a battle where any advantage might change the outcome.
With Marvel Studios gearing up for the full introduction of mutants into the MCU, bringing Ashmore back not only delivers fan service but also provides a character whose arc remains ripe for exploration. Longtime viewers want to see Iceman’s leadership and strength tested in high-stakes situations alongside other Avengers, and these upcoming films offer just that.
What’s Next for Avengers: Doomsday and Marvel’s Mutant Heroes?
As the countdown to Avengers: Doomsday’s December 18, 2026 release continues, anticipation is building about which characters will step up to face Doctor Doom. The demand to see Bobby Drake, aka Iceman, join the ranks of Earth’s mightiest heroes reflects a growing appreciation of Shawn Ashmore’s contribution to the Marvel universe and his continued impact as an actor.
Fans and critics alike believe that if Nathan Fillion can carve out a place for himself in the MCU, then Ashmore—with his history, versatility, and power-packed superhero credibility—more than deserves his own return to action. As the MCU expands its cast of characters and embraces its X-Men heritage, bringing Shawn Ashmore’s Iceman into Avengers: Doomsday would be both a smart creative move and a crowd-pleaser for passionate Marvel audiences.
With speculation running high and the official introduction of mutants on the horizon, all eyes are on Marvel Studios to see if they tap into the nostalgia and power that only a character like Bobby Drake, under Ashmore’s charismatic leadership, can bring.
