Laurence Fishburne Wants to Be Professor X in Marvel’s X-Men Reboot

At New York Comic Con 2025, Laurence Fishburne took the stage for a Matrix reunion and left fans buzzing with a surprising revelation. 

He shared that he wants to join the Marvel Cinematic Universe, specifically as Professor X in Marvel Studios’ upcoming X-Men reboot. 

His spontaneous question to the crowd, “What do you think about Laurence Fishburne as Professor X?” drew instant cheers and applause from fans, with moderator Josh Horowitz joking that the idea was, “Approved. Greenlit.”

A Familiar Face in the Marvel Universe

Fishburne is no stranger to Marvel. He played Dr. Bill Foster in Ant-Man and the Wasp and has contributed voice work to other Marvel projects, giving him a unique position as both an insider and a fan. 

Now, with the X-Men reboot on the horizon, it seems he sees an opportunity to re-enter the MCU in a new light.

When asked about other dream roles, Fishburne kept things open. He said he would let fans decide what they would like to see him do next, but he quickly ruled out joining Star Wars. 

He admitted he’s perfectly content enjoying that galaxy far, far away from the comfort of his couch, saying he doesn’t need a lightsaber to be part of the fun.

What’s Next for the X-Men

Marvel Studios has confirmed that the X-Men will be fully recast following Avengers: Secret Wars. 

Legacy actors from the 20th Century Fox era, including James McAvoy and Patrick Stewart, are expected to appear in Avengers: Doomsday before passing the torch to a new generation. 

The reboot will mark a clean slate for Marvel’s mutants and introduce a reimagined team within the established Marvel Cinematic Universe timeline.

Fans have already started speculating about who could play Charles Xavier. Some reports suggest that Colman Domingo is under consideration, while others think Fishburne’s natural authority and on-screen presence would make him a strong contender. 

The upcoming film, reportedly directed by Jake Schreier, is still in early development, with casting decisions yet to be confirmed.

Why Fishburne Could Be the Right Choice

Laurence Fishburne’s career spans decades of powerful performances across stage and screen. 

From Boyz n the Hood to The Matrix and John Wick, he has built a reputation for commanding roles and emotional depth. 

As Professor X, he could bring a certain gravitas and warmth to the leader of the mutants, a version that feels both modern and deeply human. Fans online have already begun celebrating the idea, calling Fishburne a natural fit for the role and praising his ability to convey both strength and empathy. 

Many have pointed out that his acting range could redefine what Charles Xavier represents for a new generation of Marvel fans.

Looking Ahead at the X-Men Reboot

Fishburne often says that his favorite project is “the next one,” a sentiment that reflects his ongoing curiosity and drive as an actor. 

His Comic Con appearance reminded fans that, even after decades in Hollywood, he’s still looking ahead. 

Whether Marvel takes him up on his wish remains to be seen, but his bold pitch has already reignited excitement for the next era of X-Men storytelling.