For years, fans have eagerly anticipated the continuation of the beloved X-Men series. Since Disney’s acquisition of Fox in 2019, Marvel Studios gained the rights to the X-Men characters, leaving audiences excited but with one burning question: Will there be an X-Men 4?
The truth is, while X-Men 4 as originally envisioned may not happen, the future of mutants in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is far from over. The official X-Men film series concluded with Dark Phoenix in 2019, but Marvel’s future plans have evolved beyond the Fox-era films. With Disney’s acquisition, the integration of mutants into the MCU is a primary focus, but rather than continuing the previous timeline, Marvel is set to reboot the franchise.
Marvel Studios has confirmed that they are working on a new X-Men film, but specific details remain under wraps. The MCU’s mutant team will be completely reimagined to fit within the existing MCU universe. While no official title or release date has been announced, many insiders speculate that we will start seeing the X-Men’s integration during MCU Phase 6, which could be anywhere between 2026 and 2028.
Marvel’s Chief Creative Officer, Kevin Feige, hinted at the upcoming reboot, teasing the involvement of mutants and their eventual debut. Fans have also been treated to a nostalgic nod with the release of X-Men ’97, an animated series rebooting the classic X-Men cartoon from the ’90s. This series is set to premiere in 2024, feeding the fans’ hunger for more mutant action.
Will Hugh Jackman Return as Wolverine?
One of the most debated topics surrounding the future of X-Men is whether Hugh Jackman will return as Wolverine. Jackman’s portrayal of Wolverine became iconic over two decades, but with his character’s story concluding in Logan (2017), the actor himself had mentioned it was his final performance as the clawed mutant. However, recent rumors and his confirmed appearance in Deadpool 3 (2024) have reignited hope that Wolverine might make a comeback in some form.
What Could X-Men 4 Look Like?
Though X-Men 4 won’t exist as a direct sequel to the original trilogy, the MCU reboot will likely introduce new storylines, characters, and perhaps even an altered version of fan-favorites like Professor X, Magneto, and Wolverine. The possibilities are endless with Marvel’s vast storyline potential, particularly with the multiverse now in play.
While it’s sad to see the original X-Men era close, the MCU’s plans offer excitement for the future of the mutant saga. A new X-Men movie may still be a few years away, but when it finally lands, it will undoubtedly bring the iconic mutants back into the spotlight in ways we’ve never seen before.
Stay tuned for more updates as the MCU continues to expand its universe and the mutants’ inevitable arrival!