Deadpool fans are looking forward to the Merc with the Mouth returning soon to lead another solo movie, but there's arguably almost s much excitement for that next cinematic adventure to finally introduce Cable to the X-Men movie franchise. Ever since Wade Wilson teased bringing Cable into the sequel during the Ferris Bueller-inspired Deadpool post-credits scene, there's been no shortage of rumors and reports about who may play the bulky, badass mutant. With production on Deadpool 2 beginning soon, we're closer than ever to finding out which actor will play Cable, and now there's word that Michael Shannon is the current frontrunner for the role.
Michael Shannon is reportedly at the top of 20th Century Fox's list on who they're eyeing to play Cable in Deadpool 2. However, THR clarified that Shannon isn't quite a shoe-in for the role yet, as there are a few other choices for the character still in the mix, like Stranger Things' David Harbour. The article also notes that one factor that could prevent Shannon from joining Deadpool 2 is that he just signed on for the movie What They Had, which starts shooting in the spring. If Shannon were to be cast as Cable, this would be his third comic book movie role, previously playing Dr. Cross Williams in Jonah Hex and General Zod in Man of Steel.
Aside from the projects mentioned above, Michael Shannon's notable credits include his regular role on HBO's Boardwalk Empire as Nelson Van Alden, Revolutionary Road, World Trade Center, The Iceman, 99 Homes, Loving, Midnight Special and Nocturnal Animals, to name a few. Looking over his resume, Shannon has a history of playing intense characters, so Cable would be an excellent fit for him. Although Cable usually fits firmly into the hero category, he's also someone who carries a lot on his shoulders thanks to his rough upbringing in the future and the tragedy he's witnessed over the years. Shannon would be able to handle Cable's personality well, being the straight man to Deadpool's wacky protagonist. Besides, surely there are a lot of you curious to see Michael Shannon ripped and with a cybernetic arm, right?
No plot details for Deadpool 2 have been released yet, but aside from Cable, the other major character being introduced is Domino, who will be played by Atlanta's Zadie Beetz. Negasonic Teenage Warhead, Colossus and Dopinder the cab driver are also confirmed to return for the sequel. John Wick's David Leitch has taken over the director's chair from Tim Miller, while Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick working with Ryan Reynolds and Drew Goddard on the script.
Deadpool 2 is slated to hit theaters sometime in 2018. Let us know what you think about Michael Shannon potentially playing Cable in the comments below.
