After the immaculate reception around ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’, it seems Ryan Reynolds isn’t ready to turn back yet. According to a new report, the Canadian actor is actively developing a Marvel Studios project that would feature Deadpool teaming up with a small roster of X-Men characters.
While this project is still in its early stages and far from a confirmed release, the implications for both Deadpool and the broader Marvel Cinematic Universe are too big to ignore. However, what makes this project truly fascinating is its potential to reshape the narrative arc of both Deadpool and the X-Men.
Deadpool Will Be A Supporting Player, Not A Protagonist
In an unexpected twist, Ryan Reynolds’ Deadpool wouldn’t even be the central figure in this yet-to-be-titled X-Men movie. Instead, he’s expected to take a “supporting role,” a choice that might seem weird but actually makes creative sense. Deadpool, for all his chaotic charm, tends to dominate the screen. His humor can overshadow almost anyone he shares the frame with.
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So, placing him in a supporting role gives breathing room to the new or returning X-Men characters who may be introduced or reimagined in the MCU. It also allows Deadpool to function more like a wild card. According to the THR report, the film will include “three to four” X-Men characters. While no specific names have been confirmed, the possibilities are endless.
Marvel Studios’ decision to experiment with the X-Men outside of their full reboot (which is currently being written by Michael Lesslie) shows a clear interest in diversifying how mutants are introduced into the MCU. Rather than diving straight into a large ensemble X-Men film, Marvel appears to be building up the mutant narrative slowly. This story-building approach is what has kept Marvel afloat.
Ryan Reynolds Claims “If Deadpool Becomes An Avenger Or X-Man, We’re At The End”
In a recent interview with TIME Magazine, Reynolds spoke candidly about his relationship with the Deadpool character and what the future might look like. The actor, who has been deeply involved in every aspect of the franchise, revealed that he’s currently working on a new ensemble script. Interestingly, he didn’t commit to Deadpool being the main protagonist. He wants Wade Wilson to remain a somewhat isolated figure.
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“I’m writing a little something right now, that’s, I don’t know, it’s an ensemble,” Reynolds said. “But I like that he’s isolated. If Deadpool becomes an Avenger or an X-Man, we’re at the end. That’s his wish fulfillment, and you can’t give him that.” This quote speaks volumes about Reynolds’ understanding of Deadpool as a character. Wade Wilson isn’t a traditional hero; he’s a loner who operates on the fringes of heroism.
Giving him a home with the Avengers or the X-Men would be satisfying on a surface level, but ultimately betray his fundamental identity. Yet, the beauty lies in contrast. Dropping Deadpool into an ensemble of more “proper” heroes lets his chaotic, R-rated energy shine brighter. Moreover, that’s part of what makes the Deadpool character so beloved.
Reynolds also teased the many bizarre versions of Deadpool 3 he once pitched to Disney. This included a stop-motion animated film and a Sundance-style one-shot. While those didn’t materialize, it shows that Marvel is giving him creative room to experiment. This project may not yet have a director, release date, or official green light, but the mere suggestion of a Deadpool-X-Men movie within the MCU is exciting.
