Laurence Fishburne Eyes Professor X in the X-Men Reboot — The Casting Choice We Didn’t Know We Needed
Laurence Fishburne wants seconds in the MCU, eyeing a rare double dip that could have him suiting up for a new role.
Laurence Fishburne just shot his shot with Marvel, and honestly, I kind of love it. The Matrix legend told a New York Comic Con crowd exactly which role he wants next — and yes, it would mean he pulls double duty in the MCU.
Fishburne wants to roll into the X-Mansion
On a Matrix panel at NYCC last week, Fishburne was asked about dream roles. As reported by Entertainment Weekly, he went right for the big chair:
"I know that they are talking about the X-Men now. So, at this point, I want one of two things. The first thing would be: what do you think about Laurence Fishburne as Professor X?"
The crowd went loud, because of course they did. As for that second mystery role he mentioned? He admitted he still cannot nail down what it would be.
No lightsabers, thanks
If you were hoping he would hop over to Star Wars, that is a no. Fishburne said he is happy enjoying that galaxy from his couch and is currently midway through the animated series Star Wars Rebels.
Could he actually do Professor X if he is already in the MCU?
Yep. Marvel reuses talent more than you might think. Fishburne has already played Bill Foster in Ant-Man and the Wasp, and he would not be the first actor to take on a second Marvel role.
- Gemma Chan — Minn-Erva in Captain Marvel, then Sersi in Eternals
- Michelle Yeoh — Aleta Ogord in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, then Ying Nan in Shang-Chi
- Mahershala Ali — Cottonmouth in Luke Cage, and Blade... maybe, once that movie finally lands
Where the X-Men reboot stands
Marvel Studios has officially set an X-Men reboot in motion. Beyond that, details are thin: Thunderbolts director Jake Schreier is taking the reins, but there is no casting to report yet. So if Fishburne wants in as Professor X, the timing actually lines up.
Meanwhile, over in Avengers-land...
Several X-Men alumni are set to show up in Avengers: Doomsday. The Russo brothers dropped a tease that has fans connecting dots and wondering if the story leans toward an Avengers vs. X-Men confrontation. Nothing confirmed, but the speculation machine is humming.
What is next for Fishburne
Before any potential Cerebro upgrades, Fishburne will pop up in The Witcher season 4 as Regis, the barber-surgeon with a past. Great role, great fit.