It’s really hard to imagine anyone other than Hugh Jackman playing Wolverine in the movies. He’s been playing the character for so long! It’s been 14 years since he was introduced in Bryan Singer‘s X-Men. The part was originally supposed to go to Russell Crowe, but he passed on it and told the studio to give it Jackman, so they did. The actor himself has said that his replacement is inevitable. As much as we love him as the character, he can’t keep it up forever.
“Look, that’s inevitable, man. Anyone who thinks they’re indispensable in this business is fooling themselves. But I feel unbelievably blessed to have this part. I never thought in a million years I’d get to play him seven times. Every day I walk on the set with the claws and the hair, I thank my lucky stars. I don’t take any of it for granted. To think that in a second version we’d have this cast and this director, and you guys don’t know the script, but I would say probably the best script of all of them, is pretty amazing. I think that’s why I’m still here. I’m sure by the way, that it won’t always be my decision to always be here. At some point, someone will close the door on me…”
So when the his time is up, who will replace him? It has got to be an actor who can at least sport the infamous hair look without looking ridiculous, and he has to be crazy fit. Jackman previously said Channing Tatum could “probably play him.” I don’t think Tatum could pull off that rugged Wolverine look though.
There’s always a chance that FOX could replace him with an unknown actor who can grow into the role as they keep making movies. That way they could get a great deal. If they do go with a known actor, there are a few out there that might be able to actually pull it off. Here are some I think might be decent choices.
Tom Hardy – The guy has the build and intensity of Wolverine. He’s also an incredible actor. If you want to see him go into berserker rage, just watch Warrior
Joel Edgerton – He’s got a burly tough guy look that would easily fit the part. He has what it takes to sport the look, and the guy has talent.
Sam Worthington – He’s not my favorite actor, but still one that I think could pull it off if cast.
Gerard Butler – He might be an older choice for the part, but he could still kick some ass as the character. He’s already played some great, badass characters in his career, so I think a role like this would be easy for him
Charles Mesure – He also looks a bit older, and he’s the least known actor on the list, but just look at the guy! He’s been in TV shows – V, Desperate Housewives, and a bunch of other series.
What other actors do you think could be added to the list? Who would you like to see replace Jackman as Wolverine