One of the most famous mutants in the X-Men’s long history, Mystique is many things to many fans. To some, she’s a formidable heroine whose pride in her abilities makes her a character to root for. Others consider her a sinister villain who notoriously aligns herself with powerful mutants to cause trouble for non-mutants, and to a few, she’s an antiheroine, perfectly balanced between good and evil. Whichever way you view her, there’s no denying her popularity among comic book readers and fans of previous X-Men live-action adaptations.
In the past, the character has been brought to life by Rebecca Romjin, whose turn as the mutant was lauded by many fans. Jennifer Lawrence also played Mystique in later adaptations of the X-Men. With the mutants making their way to the MCU very soon, the character is one among many that fans are hoping has a starring role in the first installment. But who has got the chops to take on the daring, no-nonsense Mystique?
Lesley Ann-Brandt
It’s a no-brainer that Lesley Ann-Brandt would make a fantastic Mystique. The South-African actress has long been at the forefront of fan-casts, and rightfully so. She’s shown off her incredible acting talents in popular series Spartacus: Blood and Sand, and most famously, Lucifer, where she starred as Mazikeen for six seasons. This also means she has experience in bringing a comic book character to life, and Mystique should be a walk in the park for her. She’s also very big on athletics, so she should have no problem training for the role of the famous blue mutant.
Ana de Armas
Ana de Armas is the epitome of versatility, and has shown off her incredible range on numerous occasions. She has the ability to fully immerse herself in a role, making for a very believable watch. The Cuban-Spanish actress has been in front of the camera for a long time now, but recently skyrocketed to fame for her roles in No Time to Die, Knives Out, and Blonde, the last of which earned her an Academy Award nod. Many fans are very eager to see her take on the role of Mystique, who is known for her incredible sex appeal, combat skills, and expert manipulation of others.
Natalie Dormer
The British bombshell had a very small role in 2011’s Captain America: The First Avenger, but that has not stopped fans from casting her as Mystique over and over again. Dormer has achieved mainstream fame for her roles in The Tudors, The Hunger Games, Elementary, and Game of Thrones, bringing her signature wit and charm to each role she plays. As far as similarities go, Dormer’s previous roles make her one of the most suited actresses for the role of Raven.
Nathalie Emmanuel
Another Game of Thrones alum, Natalie Emmanuel has racked up a significant following not just for her incredible performances on screen, but for her healthy lifestyle choices. Emmanuel has starred in major film franchises The Maze Runner and Fast & Furious, and is an action star in her own right. The British actress is also a strong candidate for Mystique because of her ability to show vulnerability and power simultaneously on screen.
Vanessa Hudgens
Vanessa Hudgens became a household name many years ago, and has continued to cement herself as one of the most talented Disney alums. While her filmography consists of friendlier roles, she’s been known to amp up the heat when needed, and that’s what gives her an edge in playing a character like Mystique. Hudgens can be very sweet and very sexy depending on what the role calls for, and while Mystique has showcased every emotion in the comic books, it will take a truly versatile actress to fully capture the essence of the character.
Claire Holt
Widely known for her magnetic role as Rebekah Mikaelson in The Vampire Diaries, The Originals, and Legacies, Claire Holt is an actress that would undoubtedly deliver a captivating performance as Mystique in the MCU. The Australian actress has won hearts all over for her emotive acting, and if the MCU is going for some of Raven’s more emotional storylines, Holt would definitely do it justice.
Phoebe Tonkin
Another member of The Vampire Diaries family, Phoebe Tonkin’s fierce and strong acting chops have made her a rising casting option for many Mystique fans. She may have slowed down in recent years, but the actress is more than capable of playing the edgier side of Mystique on screen. Tonkin is also a dancer, which would make some of Mystique’s training and her moves much easier to perform.
Kate Mara
Kate Mara has been on screen since the ’90s and has proven herself to be one of the most talented actresses to watch. She has taken on a host of different roles and sold each one to the viewers. Mara is another star that fans are hoping is given the MCU treatment soon, as she was a great Sue Storm, regardless of the box office bomb that was Fantastic Four film she starred in. She’s also very big on keeping fit and healthy, so she should have no issues with whatever training comes with the role.
Lily James
From Cinderella to Downton Abbey, Baby Driver, and Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again, Lily James has starred in some successful film and TV projects. The British actress most recently showed off a more exciting side for her role as Pamela Anderson, so fans are convinced she can deliver as a believable Mystique.
Léa Seydoux
With a striking resemblance to many comic book imaginings of Mystique, Léa Seydoux is a French actor that has made a magnificent crossover into Hollywood. The star’s filmography is packed with strong and memorable performances that range from emotional and stirring to complete badassery. Her voice and motion capture performance as Fragile in the Death Stranding video game was met with critical acclaim, and she remains a multi-talented star capable of owning whatever role she’s given.
