In an exclusive interview with Extra, Channing Tatum opened up about the swirling speculation regarding his potential involvement in the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Avengers franchise. Known for his charismatic roles in films like Magic Mike and 21 Jump Street, Tatum has long been tied to superhero buzz, particularly after his brief stint as Gambit in the 2024 hit Deadpool & Wolverine. Fans have been eager to see if the actor’s Cajun card-slinger might shuffle his way into the next big Avengers team up, but Tatum is keeping expectations grounded for now.
When asked about the Avengers rumors, Tatum flashed his signature grin and quipped, “Personally, all I was guaranteed was a chair. They said that I have a chair, and I can at least watch the movie from the chair. You know, and it was just my name, it wasn’t exactly Gambit. So, I work in the world of just like, of binary yes or no’s, and I’ve only been guaranteed so far a chair to watch the movie in, so that’s where I’m at.”
His lighthearted response hints at a mix of excitement and uncertainty about where his Marvel journey might lead. While he didn’t confirm any blockbuster cameos, he didn’t shut the door entirely either, leaving fans to wonder if the kinetic-energy-wielding mutant could charge into the MCU’s future.
Tatum’s history with Marvel is a tale of near-misses and unexpected wins. For years, he was attached to a standalone Gambit film under Fox’s X-Men umbrella—a project that never quite made it off the ground despite his passion for the character. “I’d been chasing that dream for a long time,” he admitted, reflecting on the rollercoaster of development hell. But the collapse of that vision turned into a silver lining when Disney’s acquisition of Fox opened new doors. His scene-stealing turn in Deadpool & Wolverine a multiverse romp that delighted audiences, finally gave him a chance to don Gambit’s trench coat and let those cards fly.
“I got to play him, even if it was just for a moment,” Tatum said, clearly savoring the experience. “That movie was such a wild ride, and seeing people react to Gambit? It felt like a win after all those years.” The film’s success, coupled with his undeniable chemistry in the role, has only fueled speculation about what’s next. Could Gambit join the ranks of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes in a future Avengers installment? Tatum’s coy “chair” comment suggests he’s in the loop—sort of—but not ready to spill the deck just yet.
For now, Tatum seems content to let the rumors swirl while he enjoys the ride. “I’m just happy to be part of the conversation,” he told Extra. “Whatever happens, happens. I’ve got my chair—I’m good!” Whether that chair is at the Avengers’ table or just in the audience, fans will be keeping a close eye on Marvel’s next moves. With the multiverse wide open and Tatum’s Gambit already a fan favorite, the odds might just be in his favor. We could see him as a version of a different superhero but fans will be disappointed if we don’t see him show up as Gambit at least once, in Avengers: Doomsday.
