James McAvoy Is Not Involved In New Mutants

Fox’s X-Men cinematic universe is really starting to come together now, and it’s very exciting to watch. There are a whole host of projects in various stages of development, and this week, we got some substantial updates on two of them. First, we learned that the studio is busy casting three X-Force members, who are set to cameo in Deadpool 2. Following that, earlier today The Hollywood Reporter finally gave us some confirmation on a rumor that’s been floating around for a while now.

Both Maisie Williams and Anya Taylor-Joy were said to be attached to New Mutants almost ever since the project first materialized, and now, we can finally say with absolute certainty that they will indeed star in Josh Boone’s spinoff, as THR confirmed it not too long ago. Now, however, the outlet (or rather, one of their writers) brings us another update, and this one’s considerably more surprising.

According to Borys Kit, who’s usually pretty spot on with his scoops, James McAvoy will not show up in New Mutants. We say that’s surprising because a while back we heard that he would have a role, with the actor appearing to tease as much via social media. Kit claims he’s not involved though, which does contradict producer Simon Kinberg’s comments from earlier in the year, when he told Collider that Professor X would factor into things.

Perhaps plans have changed, then? Whatever the case may be, it seems we shouldn’t count on seeing McAvoy appear in the spinoff, which is disappointing but definitely not the end of the world. After all, he likely would have only had a small part anyways, with the majority of the focus presumably being placed on the titular team as the film introduces them to audiences.

As for whether or not any other familiar faces will show up in New Mutants, well, it’s hard to say. However, if Professor X has now been cut for whatever reason, we don’t imagine anyone else will be thrown in. At least, not in any substantial way. Perhaps we’ll see one of the X-Men pop up in the post-credits scene, but that’d probably be it.

With casting now well underway on New Mutants, you can expect to learn more about the project quite soon. In the meantime, tell us, what are your thoughts on McAvoy not being involved? Were you hoping he’d show up? Let us know in the usual place!