Channing Tatum Confirmed as Gambit?

Just as X-Men franchise producer Lauren Shuler Donner has been vocal about her desire for Channing Tatum to play Gambit in a solo film, the actor has made no secret of his interest in the role, confirming just last month that the two have at least met about the possibility. But Shuler Donner may have just have confirmed his involvement in the unannounced project — emphasis on may.

Appearing at a press event for X-Men: Days of Future Past, the producer was asked by Total Film what kind of actor she’s looking for to play Gambit. Her immediate response: “It is Channing, yes, yes.”

“Well, you know, he’s a rogue, he’s a rascal, just like Remy LeBeau,” said Shuler Donner, explaining why Tatum is right for the role. “He can handle the action, as we know, and he’s got a real good heart, I know him personally. He’ll be great for Gambit, and he’s a Southerner too, he understands that world, and you know Gambit loves New Orleans.”

While she’s certainly enthusiastic about Tatum, and about Gambit, it’s not exactly clear whether Shuler Donner is actually announcing the actor’s attachment to the project, which seems unlikely to even have a script yet, or merely saying he’s the one she wants. It’s not unusual for a producer or director to zero in on actor, and even develop a film with him in mind; it is, however, rare that a significant casting announcement is blurted out on the red — or in this case blue — carpet.

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Mike