“I will do exactly what was done to me”: Hugh Jackman Knows How to Pass On Wolverine After ‘Snatching’ Away the Role from Tom Cruise’s Mission Impossible Co-Star

Hugh Jackman embraces the idea of passing on Wolverine with grace, influenced by the amicable transition he experienced.

The world of comic book movies stands largely on the shoulders of devoted actors who have dedicated a large portion of their careers to playing famed roles. From Chris Evans as Captain America to Scarlett Johanson as Black Widow, the list goes on. However, in terms of holding on to that role for the longest time ever, no one comes close to Hugh Jackman and his stint as Wolverine. However, despite a staggering tenure of 24 years and continuing, the actor has not evaded the thought of letting go of his character.

A brilliant twist of fate landed the Australian actor in his now synonymous role. Originally slated for a different actor, Jackman still has not forgotten the mercy of fate. Professionally enough, he also knows how to return the favor when the time comes.

Hugh Jackman has a plan to pass on the role of Wolverine

In 2000, 20th Century Fox released the first-ever live-action X-Men movie. Directed by Bryan Singer, the flick did not actually plan to cast Hugh Jackman in the iconic role. The role was initially slated to be played by the Scottish actor Dougray Scott. However, he had also signed on to play the villain in Mission Impossible: II. As the shoots for the Tom Cruise-led movie stretched on for longer than intended, the executives settled on the Australian star to helm the character.

A relatively unknown stage actor at that time, the Logan lead remained grateful for the opportunity and also came to good terms for the same. In talks with The Hollywood Reporter in 2017, Jackman stated how he met and apologized to Scott, who took it amicably while remarking that “It’s just business”. This act had a profound impact on the actor and he hopes to pass on his character to the next person with as much cordiality as Scott.

I just remember being so impressed by that and his class, and hopefully I am a big enough guy that when someone else takes over, I will do exactly what was done to me…and I feel glad to just be a part of the legacy of that character. I feel great parts — great characters out live the actors that play them. Bond, Superman, Batman…so, there you go.

After initially hanging up his claws in 2017, Ryan Reynolds’ persistence has once again brought the star back to his iconic role. However, this time, he may not be all alone.

A slew of variants rumored for Deadpool & Wolverine

Hugh Jackman as Wolverine and Ryan Reynolds as Deadpool in Deadpool & Wolverine

Marvel Studios turned the tide of fans towards itself as it brought back the iconic pair of Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman for Deadpool & Wolverine. Moreover, the second trailer completely showcased the two stars in all their glory and comic-accurate suits, setting the stage for a mega-movie. However, several rumors and hints have pointed out the fact that there could be more than just one variant, with even separate actors playing them.

Henry Cavill and Daniel Radcliffe have come forth as the two front-runners expected to star as variants of the clawed mutant. At the same time, talks hold the ex-Superman playing a gritty version of the character, the Harry Potter actor may bring to life a variant named Patch. Although nothing is known for sure at this moment, the chances of these happening stay pretty high owing to the multiverse saga being wide open.

X-Men is available to stream on Disney+ whereas Deadpool & Wolverine releases in theaters on July 26, 2024.