Deadpool And Wolverine Explored Henry Cavill And Other Versions Of Logan In The MCU, But Hugh Jackman Previously Had Another Actor In Mind

Tom Hardy looking shocked in Venom: Let There Be Carnage
(Image credit: Sony)

The Marvel Cinematic Universe is always releasing new content, both in theaters and streaming with a Disney+ subscription. Fan were delighted when Deadpool & Wolverine hit theaters, and has been making a ton of money. Deadpool 3 explored Henry Cavill and other versions of Logan in the MCU, but Hugh Jackman previously had another actor in mind.

Deadpool & Wolverine featured a ton of cameos, delighting fans who spent years watching the Marvel movies in order. We were introduced to the Cavillrine, after years of fans wanting to see Henry Cavill as the clawed mutant. But years ago, Hugh Jackman was asked by MTV about which younger actor could possible take on the mantle of Logan. He said:

I've been asked the question a lot. And I'm always like 'I don't want to make it too easy on the studio to replace me. I've still got one more to do.' I'm sure they're already talking about it. Some actor out there has already said "Shh keep it quiet. We want you next.' He's younger than me for sure, I think Tom Hardy could be a great one.

Honestly, that's a pretty solid choice. Tom Hardy has plenty of experience with genre work and action sequences, including his role in Mad Max: Fury Road, and as the title character of the Venom franchise. And he'd no doubt be great in full Wolverine rage mode if he got the chance to play Jackman's signature role.

Hugh Jackman played Wolverine in seven X-Men movies, in addition to a few cameos. Given his acclaimed role in Deadpool & Wolverine, fans are expecting him to stick around for upcoming Marvel movies. So the talks about his replacement might ultimately be for naught.

Hugh Jackman close up in Deadpool 3

(Image credit: Marvel Studios)

Logistics-wise, Tom Hardy only has a 9 year difference with Hugh Jackman, so he actually might not have been the right type if the studio was looking for a younger actor to play Logan. Still, he's a talent that's built for superhero movies like the Venom trilogy.

The conversation about which actor could replace Hugh Jackman as Wolverine has been going on for years, including before he (temporarily) retired after Logan. In addition to Henry Cavill, other popular fan choices include Daniel Radcliffe, who would offer a more comic-accurate representation thank to being a short king. While Radcliffe is flattered by these talks, he seemingly hasn't been in conversation with the studio.

Given how much money Deadpool & Wolverine has made, fans are expecting Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman to have big roles in the MCU moving forward. Shawn Levy's blockbuster offered a glimmer of hope after a number of box office bombs for the studio. We'll just have to wait and see what Kevin Feige has up his sleeve.

Deadpool & Wolverine is still in theaters now. Check out the 2025 movie release dates.

Corey Chichizola
Movies Editor

Corey was born and raised in New Jersey. Graduated with degrees theater and literature from Ramapo College of New Jersey. After working in administrative theater for a year in New York, he started as the Weekend Editor at CinemaBlend. He's since been able to work himself up to reviews, phoners, and press junkets-- and is now able to appear on camera with some of his favorite actors... just not as he would have predicted as a kid. He's particularly proud of covering horror franchises like Scream and Halloween, as well as movie musicals like West Side Story. Favorite interviews include Steven Spielberg, Spike Lee, Jamie Lee Curtis, and more.