Gambit is one of the most popular and charismatic X-Men characters, but he has never been given a proper chance to shine on the big screen. The only time we saw him was in X-Men Origins: Wolverine, where he was played by Taylor Kitsch in a forgettable cameo. But there was a time when Channing Tatum was attached to star in a solo Gambit movie, which would have explored his origins as a Cajun thief and his relationship with Rogue.
Unfortunately, that movie never happened. It was stuck in development hell for years, going through multiple directors and script changes. It was finally canceled after Disney acquired Fox and took over the X-Men franchise. Tatum recently revealed that he was “traumatized” by the cancellation of his dream project12, and that he still hopes to play Gambit someday3.
I think he deserves that chance. Here’s why Channing Tatum should be cast as Gambit in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
First of all, Tatum is a huge fan of Gambit. He grew up reading X-Men comics and watching the animated series, where Gambit was one of his favorite characters2. He even learned how to do Gambit’s Cajun accent and how to throw playing cards like him4. He has shown genuine passion and enthusiasm for the role, which is something that Marvel Studios values in their actors.
Secondly, Tatum is a great fit for Gambit’s personality and style. He has proven his comedic chops in movies like 21 Jump Street and Logan Lucky, where he displayed a charming and witty sense of humor. He also has the charisma and sex appeal that Gambit is known for, as seen in movies like Magic Mike and Step Up. And he can handle action scenes very well, as evidenced by his roles in G.I. Joe and Kingsman: The Golden Circle.
Thirdly, Tatum can bring something fresh and different to the MCU. Gambit is not your typical superhero. He’s a rogue who operates on his own terms, often clashing with authority figures like Professor X or Cyclops. He’s also a romantic who has a complicated history with Rogue, one of the most powerful mutants ever created. His powers are also unique: he can charge objects with kinetic energy and make them explode, usually using playing cards as his weapons of choice.
Finally, Tatum can help introduce Gambit to a new generation of fans who may not be familiar with him or his comic book stories. The MCU has done an excellent job of adapting obscure or lesser-known characters like Ant-Man or Guardians of the Galaxy into household names. They can do the same with Gambit if they give him a chance to shine alongside other heroes like Spider-Man or Doctor Strange.
In conclusion, Channing Tatum should be cast as Gambit in the MCU because he has everything it takes to play this iconic character: passion, talent, charisma, and style. He deserves redemption after his failed attempt at making a solo movie for Fox. And he can bring new life and excitement to one of Marvel’s most beloved mutants.