With the closing of the Disney/Fox deal came a number of changes, the biggest of them being the former's acquisition of the X-Men and the Fantastic Four. Prior to this seismic development, Disney couldn't use any of what Fox owned. The company didn't even get them on weekends. But now that Disney owns these characters, MCU head Kevin Feige hinted that the two teams may appear in Phase 5 of his cinematic universe, but only mentioned that as part of his closing remarks at the 2019 San Diego Comic-Con.
Now, there's a rumor that the Marvel Cinematic Universe may portray the two most important X-Men characters, Charles Xavier (Professor X) and Erik Lehnsherr (Magneto), as people of color.
Full Circle Cinema recently drew upon Kevin Feige's comments about diversity and reported that, according to a source, Marvel may cast people of color as Professor X and Magneto. Predictably, longtime fans of the characters are divided on the consideration. Many took to Twitter to voice their approval (or disapproval) of the possibility. We will start with some of the positive reactions:
Eric B.'s comment is particularly interesting (and more than a bit insightful) and is backed by solid logic. I won't get into it any further, but he brings up good points.
Others have not been as open to the idea. Here are some...uh, less positive reactions:
Obviously, this is going to get interesting. With the fiery feelings which drive the Marvel vs. DC conflict reignited, there are a great many comic books fans who are super worked up and probably won't take kindly to any kind of shake-up (even if an actor such as Denzel Washington has been rumored to be eyed for Magneto).
Fans were first spoiled by Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellen, each of whom turned in incredible performances as the two characters we're discussing. Years later, X-Men: First Class introduced us to younger versions of Xavier and Lehnsherr (portrayed by James McAvoy and Michael Fassbender, respectively). These two actors also treated fans to incredibly nuanced portrayals bolstered by the enthusiasm and charisma both brought to the role. I will miss them, but I trust that they are in good hands over at Disney. It will be exciting to see what Feige and company do with these two iconic characters.
What are your thoughts on this? Do you think this is a good idea? A bad one? Or are you indifferent? I miss Stewart, McKellen, McAvoy, and Fassbender but I'm also open to any change the MCU makes. It's not that they can't do wrong. It's that they've done too much too well for me to doubt them without very good reasons.
Sound off in the comments below, but please be civil and respectful. And in the meantime, get excited about what's hitting theaters later this year!
