First Look at Returning X-Men Cast Members in Avengers: Doomsday Set Photos

Avengers: Doomsday Begins Filming in the UK

Production for Avengers: Doomsday is officially underway in the UK, bringing with it a wave of excitement as new images from the set have surfaced, showcasing the illustrious cast. Alongside MCU regulars such as Chris Hemsworth, Anthony Mackie, and Paul Rudd, this installment promises a surprising addition: a range of actors from the X-Men franchise, marking a significant crossover 25 years after their original debut.

Star-Studded Cast and Surprising Returns

Fans can expect to see several familiar faces from the X-Men movies, including:

  • James Marsden as Scott Summers/Cyclops
  • Ian McKellen as Erik Lensherr/Magneto
  • Patrick Stewart as Charles Xavier/Professor X
  • Kelsey Grammer as Hank McCoy/Beast
  • Rebecca Romijn as Raven Darkholme/Mystique
  • Alan Cumming as Kurt Wagner/Nightcrawler
  • Channing Tatum as Gambit

While Tatum’s role as Gambit deviates from the original X-Men trilogy cast, his presence adds another layer of intrigue to the film.

Recent Set Insights and Character Dynamics

The production kicked off on March 26, 2025, with Ian McKellen confirming his arrival on set just last week. Recent postings reveal the X-Men cast congregating to film scenes. A captivating image shared by user @BuiltFromSmash features Marsden alongside Benedict Wong, who portrays Doctor Strange. Marsden is showcased in casual attire, suggesting an unexpected scenario where Cyclops might be drawn into the Avengers’ ranks against Doctor Doom.

Check out the new set photo featuring Marsden and Wong here.

In another exciting capture, Marsden reunites with McKellen’s Magneto, both sporting casual clothing. While Marsden opts for sunglasses reminiscent of his Cyclops looks in the original films, McKellen dons an outfit reflective of his classic Magneto robes, sans the iconic helmet.

The Potential Collaboration or Conflict?

The fan caption accompanying this image hints at a potential alliance or conflict between Cyclops and Magneto. Previous films like X2 illustrated their capacity for collaboration, raising questions about what lies ahead in the narrative framework of Avengers: Doomsday.

Explore the captured moment of Marsden and McKellen here.

Analyzing the X-Men’s Role in the MCU

X-Men 2000 Costumes

Set images provide hints towards the X-Men’s narrative arc within Avengers: Doomsday. One notable observation is the dynamic between Scott Summers and Wong, implying a potential recruitment for a joint mission against the formidable Doctor Doom. Wong’s unexpected presence on the filming roster suggests further surprises may unfold as production progresses.

Moreover, the juxtaposition of Cyclops’ civilian attire against Magneto’s classic style raises questions about their respective roles in the unfolding conflict. Cyclops’s casual appearance might indicate an unforeseen escalation into battle, while the absence of Magneto’s helmet could symbolize his current alliance with the X-Men, as it traditionally serves to counteract Professor X’s psychic influence.

Final Thoughts on Avengers: Doomsday and Its Multiversial Impact

James Marsden's Cyclops preparing to shoot an optic blast.

While specific plot details about Avengers: Doomsday remain under wraps, it will launch the two-part finale of the Multiverse Saga, culminating in Avengers: Secret Wars. Both films are expected to feature Doctor Doom, instigating conflicts that span multiple realities and possibly leading to the emergence of the MCU’s Battleworld.

This integration of the original X-Men cast provides an exciting twist within the multiversal storyline, reminiscent of the nostalgic returns witnessed in Spider-Man: No Way Home. Such decisions not only enrich the narrative but also celebrate the legacies of beloved characters as they join the expansive MCU tapestry.

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