It seems that Marvel Studios has developed a fascination for Channing Tatum’s portrayal of Gambit, especially after his stellar performance in the 2024 blockbuster, Deadpool & Wolverine.
Despite numerous failed attempts to launch a Gambit movie, Tatum finally got his chance to bring the iconic character to life in Deadpool & Wolverine, which hit the big screens in the United States this past July.
Tatum’s performance has been met with a wave of applause from fans, and the actor himself has expressed his eagerness to continue the journey with a Gambit solo movie, given the opportunity.
During a chat on Entertainment Weekly’s Awardist podcast, Deadpool’s star, Ryan Reynolds, hinted that Marvel Studios might just grant Tatum his wish.
What did Ryan Reynolds reveal about Marvel’s interest in Channing Tatum’s Gambit?
“I can’t claim to know the inner workings of Marvel’s decision-making process, but I can tell you this – they are absolutely smitten with his portrayal of Gambit,” Reynolds shared. “It reminds me of my own journey. Once you prove that a concept can work, that’s all they need. Sometimes, they just need to see it in action.”
Before the release of Deadpool in 2016, Reynolds had been yearning to play the character in a standalone superhero movie for years. The project seemed doomed after the backlash to 2011’s Green Lantern. However, leaked Deadpool test footage in July 2014 received an overwhelmingly positive response, which ultimately convinced Fox to proceed.
Reynolds further praised Tatum, saying, “Channing’s portrayal of the character is so unique, and his physicality is just stunning – the way he moves, the way he dances.”
As of now, Marvel Studios has not announced any plans for a standalone Gambit movie in the MCU. It also remains unclear whether Tatum’s Gambit will appear in any of the upcoming ensemble films, be it an Avengers or X-Men movie.
For those who missed it, Deadpool & Wolverine will be available for streaming on Disney+ starting November 12, 2024.