Excitement is building around the possible integration of mutants into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) following the events of upcoming films like Avengers: Doomsday and Secret Wars. While the X-Men cast from Fox is expected to form the core mutant team in these films, future MCU phases are reportedly set to expand the focus on the X-Men storyline, sparking numerous casting rumors. Among the speculative names gaining attention are Giancarlo Esposito as Charles Xavier, Denzel Washington as Magneto, and Hugh Jackman confirmed to return as Wolverine—though none of these roles have been officially confirmed by Marvel.
Elle Fanning Reemerges as a Candidate for Jean Grey
Interest has resurfaced around Elle Fanning as a contender to portray Jean Grey in the MCU’s X-Men lineup, as noted by industry insider Jeff Sneider during the Hot Mic podcast with John Rocha. Fanning, who is currently appearing in Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, was previously considered for an X-Men role before Disney’s acquisition of Fox finalized. Other actresses mentioned alongside her include Margaret Qualley, Daisy Edgar Jones, and Sadie Sink. According to Sneider, Fanning remains a strong possibility to take on Jean Grey in the new era of the mutant saga.
Previous Casting Choices and Social Media Influence
Elle Fanning had once auditioned for the role of Jean Grey in X-Men: Apocalypse, but Sophie Turner was ultimately cast. This decision reportedly factored in the actresses’ social media presence, with Turner’s larger following seen as an advantage. Fanning has openly discussed the impact of social media on casting, hinting that her relatively low Instagram follower count at the time diminished her chances for major franchise roles.
I did try out for…I’m not going to say what it was, but I didn’t get a part once for something big because – it might not have just been this reason, but this was the feedback that I heard – was because I didn’t have enough Instagram followers at the time,
Elle Fanning told the Happy Sad Confused Podcast in May 2023.
So that was a little like…I firmly don’t believe in not getting a part [for that]. It was for a bigger thing, a franchise thing.
—Elle Fanning, Actress
Sophie Turner later confirmed that social media influence played a role in her casting for X-Men: Apocalypse and Dark Phoenix.
I auditioned for a project and it was between me and another girl who is a far better actress than I am, far better, but I had the followers, so I got the job. It’s not right, but it is part of the movie industry now.
—Sophie Turner, Actress
Marvel’s Long-Term Vision for the Mutant Saga
Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige has revealed in prior interviews that the company is working on a decade-long strategy centered on mutant characters, often referred to as the “Mutant Saga.” This narrative arc is intended to build upon the existing Multiverse and Infinity Sagas and significantly incorporate mutants into the overarching MCU storyline. Anticipation is high for next year’s projects, which are expected to showcase mutants joining forces with established MCU heroes for the first time.
Anticipation Surrounding Future X-Men Cast and Storylines
With casting speculation swirling and Marvel’s plans for the next phase of the MCU becoming clearer, fans are eager to see how new characters will be introduced and developed. The rumored addition of Elle Fanning as Jean Grey alongside actors like Giancarlo Esposito and Denzel Washington could bring a fresh dynamic to the mutant saga. Although official announcements have yet to be made, the evolving list of potential talent suggests Marvel is aiming for a diverse and compelling ensemble.
Fan Engagement and Expectations for the Mutant Integration
As Marvel prepares to bring its mutant heroes into the forefront, the response from the fandom remains mixed but hopeful. Discussions about the direction of the mutant storyline and who should be cast in pivotal roles continue to attract interest. Whether the next chapter of the MCU will successfully integrate mutants while maintaining momentum with current heroes remains to be seen, but it is clearly a momentous step for the franchise’s evolution.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Elle Fanning naturally blonde?
A. Elle Fanning has dark hair, but she feels her personality matches being blonde, according to a photo in Just Jared’s entertainment news.
