The ‘X-Men’ Return: Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen, Alan Cumming, Rebecca Romijn and James Marsden to Appear in ‘Avengers: Doomsday’

The original “X-Men” featuring Patrick Stewart as Professor Charles Xavier, Ian McKellen as Magneto, Alan Cumming as Nightcrawler, Rebecca Romijn as Mystique and James Marsden as Cyclops, are set to return in “Avengers: Doomsday,” Marvel Studios announced on Wednesday.

Additionally, Kelsey Grammer will return as Beast, who most recently cameoed in “The Marvels” and previously starred in” X-Men: The Last Stand” at 20th Century Fox. The company made the announcement as part of a livestream revealing the cast for the upcoming film. Production kicks off in London next month.

The “X-Men” film franchise began in 2000 with “X-Men,” directed by Bryan Singer. This first film introduced audiences to the concept of mutants – humans born with genetic superpowers – and focused on the leader of the X-Men, Professor Charles Xavier, and the metal-clawed Logan/Wolverine, as they attempt to make peace with their rival Magneto. It was praised for its serious, character-driven take on the superhero genre.

Its sequel, “X2” (2003), built on the foundation of the first film, allowing for more mutant heroes and villains to appear while exploring Wolverine’s mysterious past. “X2” was an even bigger critical and commercial success, further establishing the “X-Men” as a powerful superhero franchise able to stand alongside the likes of Superman and Batman.

In 2006, Brett Ratner took over the director’s chair for “X-Men: The Last Stand.” This threequel tackles the darker, more complex “mutant cure” storyline from the comics, but received a mixed response from critics and fans. Regardless, the film was a financial success.

“Avengers: Doomsday” will be released May 1, 2026.

Source: The Wrap