Hugh Jackman Wants Next Wolverine Actor to ‘Make It Their Own’

July 3, 2026

Actor Hugh Jackman has shared his thoughts on who should play Wolverine after him, saying he hopes the next actor brings a fresh interpretation to the iconic Marvel character rather than trying to imitate his performance.

Speaking to Project Big Screen, the Oscar-nominated actor joked that he plans to keep playing Wolverine “till I’m 90” if Marvel Studios lets him. However, he made it clear that he has no intention of advising his eventual successor.

Jackman Wants a Fresh Take on Wolverine

Jackman revealed that no one guided him when he first took on the role, as he hadn’t even read the comics before being cast. He said that freedom helped him develop his own version of Wolverine over the years.

“I hope someone just comes in and does whatever they want and makes it their own,” the actor said, adding that every performer should have the opportunity to shape the character in their own way.

A Role That Defined His Career

Jackman first portrayed Wolverine in X-Men (2000) and has since reprised the role in several blockbuster films, including Logan, Deadpool 2, and Deadpool & Wolverine, making him one of Marvel’s most enduring stars.

Marvel’s X-Men Reboot in the Works

Marvel Studios is currently developing a new X-Men reboot, with director Jake Schreier confirming that work on the project has begun. Meanwhile, several original X-Men cast members, including Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen, James Marsden, and Rebecca Romijn, are set to return in Avengers: Doomsday, which is scheduled for release on December 18, 2026.