Ana de Armas Emerges as Top Contender for Rogue in MCU’s X-Men Reboot

The Marvel Cinematic Universe’s mutant revolution may have found its first superstar. Following insider reports, Ana de Armas is reportedly being eyed to portray the powerhouse mutant Rogue in Marvel Studios’ upcoming X-Men reboot—a casting decision that’s electrifying comic book fans worldwide. The rumor, originating from industry insider Daniel Richtman (Patreon, August 2025), positions the Knives Out and Ballerina star as a frontrunner for one of Marvel’s most iconic characters.

Who Could Play Rogue in Marvel’s X-Men Reboot?

Marvel Studios faces high-stakes decisions as it integrates mutants into the MCU following Disney’s 2019 acquisition of 20th Century Fox. The studio has remained tight-lipped about casting, but insider reports suggest de Armas has emerged as a prime candidate. This aligns with Marvel’s Phase 7 roadmap, unofficially dubbed the “Mutant Saga,” where fresh interpretations of classic characters are expected. Rogue’s complex abilities—absorbing memories, powers, and life force through touch—demand an actress capable of balancing vulnerability with formidable presence. Marvel Comics historian C.B. Cebulski notes, “Rogue’s journey from troubled antagonist to X-Men leader requires profound emotional range—something de Armas demonstrated in Blade Runner 2049 and No Time to Die.”

Why de Armas Embodies the Rogue Archetype

The Cuban-Spanish actress brings compelling credentials to the role:

• Action pedigree: Her physically demanding performance as a lethal assassin in Ballerina showcases combat readiness
• Emotional depth: Oscar-nominated turns in Blonde and Knives Out prove her dramatic versatility
• Geek culture familiarity: Roles in Blade Runner 2049 and Ghosted demonstrate sci-fi/fantasy fluency

Fan reactions on social media reveal overwhelming enthusiasm. “She’s got the toughness and charm to pull off Rogue’s Southern fire,” tweeted @ComicBookFanatic, while @MutantNews added, “After seeing her in Ballerina, I can’t imagine anyone better to throw down with Wolverine.” Industry analysts note de Armas’ casting would continue Marvel’s trend of elevating acclaimed actors into superhero roles, following Mahershala Ali’s Blade and Kathryn Newton’s Cassie Lang.

The MCU’s Mutant Timeline Takes Shape

While Marvel hasn’t confirmed an X-Men release date, clues point to a phased introduction:

1. 2025-2026: Mutant cameos in established franchises (Captain America: Brave New World)
2. 2027: Standalone projects establishing key characters
3. 2028: Full team ensemble films

Rogue’s potential early appearance could establish the mutant-human conflict central to the saga. Previous Fox films featured Anna Paquin as Rogue, but Kevin Feige’s team is expected to hew closer to the character’s comic roots—including her complicated relationships with Mystique and Carol Danvers. As Marvel Studios redefines live-action mutants, casting choices like de Armas signal ambitious new directions.

Other rumored contenders include Margaret Qualley and Keke Palmer, but de Armas’ combination of global star power and demonstrated action prowess makes her the current favorite to bring Marvel’s absorption powerhouse to life. For updates on this developing story and Marvel’s Phase 7 slate, follow our exclusive MCU coverage.

Must Know

Who is Rogue in Marvel Comics?
Rogue (Anna Marie LeBeau) debuted in 1981’s Avengers Annual #10 as a Brotherhood of Mutants member before joining the X-Men. Her power-absorbing abilities, flight (gained from Ms. Marvel), and signature Southern wit made her a franchise cornerstone. Her complex relationships with Gambit and Magneto define major X-Men storylines.

When will Marvel introduce the X-Men?
Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige confirmed mutants are coming “sooner than later” during Comic-Con 2024. Insider reports suggest a 2027 debut, with Deadpool & Wolverine (2024) laying groundwork through multiverse storytelling.

Has Ana de Armas done superhero projects?
While new to Marvel, de Armas starred as Paloma in the James Bond film No Time to Die (2021) and CIA agent Dani Miranda in Ghosted (2023). Her action training for Ballerina (2025) demonstrates readiness for superhero physicality.

Who originally played Rogue?
Anna Paquin portrayed Rogue across seven 20th Century Fox X-Men films (2000-2014). The character was significantly depowered compared to comics, omitting her flight, super-strength, and Ms. Marvel connections.

What defines Rogue’s personality?
Rogue balances Southern charm with fierce independence. Her struggle to control powers causes deep loneliness, yet she maintains wit and resilience—traits de Armas showcased in Knives Out‘s compassionate Marta Cabrera.