The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is once again moving boldly forward. According to Variety, Marvel Studios has announced that Jake Schreier, the acclaimed director of Thunderbolts (2025), will direct the highly anticipated X-Men reboot. As fans learn more about Schreier’s fresh approach and proven track record, excitement continues to build regarding what this means for the beloved mutant team’s future in the MCU.
A Thunderous Success with Thunderbolts
Schreier earned widespread acclaim for directing Thunderbolts, debuting to enthusiastic reviews from critics and audiences. The film stood out within the MCU because of its sharp character focus and distinct stylistic choices, which many likened to the award-winning touch of studio A24. Schreier effectively balanced emotional depth with thrilling action sequences, injecting new energy into the franchise while paving the way for his next major Marvel project.
Moreover, by delving into themes of redemption and creating nuanced character arcs in Thunderbolts, Schreier showed his ability to handle a diverse ensemble cast. This talent will undoubtedly be critical as he takes on the expansive roster of characters in the X-Men.
Who Will Join the Team?
The MCU’s X-Men reboot sparks many intriguing questions, particularly about the lineup of characters and the actors who will portray them. For instance, Marvel has already confirmed several iconic X-Men actors for Avengers: Doomsday (2026), including:
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Kelsey Grammer as Beast
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Patrick Stewart as Professor Xavier
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Ian McKellen as Magneto
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Alan Cumming as Nightcrawler
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Rebecca Romijn as Mystique
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James Marsden as Cyclops
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Channing Tatum as Gambit
However, what about other beloved characters? The future remains unclear for Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine, Ryan Reynolds’ Deadpool, and Dafne Keen’s X-23. Fans last saw these characters reunite in Deadpool & Wolverine (2024), a multiversal adventure that captivated audiences. Still, Marvel has yet to confirm whether they will be part of the next multiversal crossover.
A New Vision or a Merged Universe?
Another major question revolves around whether Marvel will fully reboot the X-Men or merge their universe with the existing MCU timeline. With multiversal chaos explored in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022), The Marvels (2023), and Deadpool & Wolverine (2024), the X-Men could be introduced as allies (or even rivals) of the Avengers.
For instance, Marvel might draw inspiration from the Avengers vs. X-Men storyline, which pits Earth’s Mightiest Heroes against the mutants in a high-stakes battle for survival. Alternatively, the mutants could team up with the Avengers to combat threats like universe-collapsing incursions or the looming menace of Robert Downey Jr.’s Dr. Doom.
What’s Next for Marvel’s Mutants?
With Jake Schreier directing, fans can anticipate an X-Men film that balances character-driven storytelling with the epic action for which the franchise is known. Schreier’s A24-inspired sensibilities could give the reboot a unique cinematic edge, setting it apart from earlier X-Men adaptations. In the same way Thunderbolts reinvigorated the anti-hero genre, Schreier’s vision for the X-Men may redefine their role within the MCU.
Nevertheless, many uncertainties remain. Will the X-Men align with the Avengers or clash against them? Will Marvel decide to reboot the cast entirely, or will iconic actors reprise their legendary roles?
What are you hoping to see in the MCU’s X-Men reboot? Let us know in the comments below!
