Deadpool & Wolverine’s X-23 Fancast for Mystique: Exclusive Insights

In a heartfelt reunion, Dafne Keen’s X-23 and Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine bring nostalgia to the MCU. Keen shares her thoughts on the future of the X-Men and fancasts her co-star.

Deadpool & Wolverine’s X-23: A Fancast for Mystique

Last year, Deadpool & Wolverine captivated audiences and dominated the box office with a heartfelt farewell to the 20th Century Fox Marvel universe. Central to this narrative was the reunion of Hugh Jackman‘s Wolverine and Dafne Keen‘s X-23, which paid tribute to the legacy of the acclaimed Logan. With the excitement of the multiverse adventure behind us, Keen has shared her thoughts on the significance of reuniting Logan and Laura for the MCU, as well as her insights on the future of the X-Men.

During a conversation with Collider’s Perri Nemiroff at San Diego Comic-Con, alongside her co-star Sophie Nélisse for their upcoming film Whistle, Keen participated in fancasting discussions for the mutant team, specifically nominating Nélisse for the role of Mystique.

Reflecting on Laura’s Evolution

Before delving into future possibilities, Keen reflected on Laura’s growth as a hero by the end of Deadpool & Wolverine. She explained how X-23 embodies Logan’s spirit but also how her character evolved upon entering the void. As part of the Resistance against Cassandra Nova (Emma Corrin), alongside heroes like Jennifer Garner‘s Elektra and Wesley Snipes‘s Blade, Laura demonstrated her skills in a team dynamic. Ultimately, she finds a happy ending, reuniting with an alternate version of her father in Deadpool’s (Ryan Reynolds) reality, showcasing that she is much more than just a “lone wolf.”

“What was so special to me about putting her in a group was that I think the Wolverine character is an archetype, and therefore Laura, as an extension of that, is a lone wolf. However, putting her in a group shows that they can work as a team. It was delightful to see Logan and Laura together again. It was fun to collaborate with others, and I believe she thrives in a team setting, despite her independent nature.”

Keen’s Fancast for Nélisse

The discussion then turned to fancasting for the MCU, focusing on roles suitable for Nélisse. “Something athletic,” Nélisse suggested, eager to showcase her gymnastics skills. Keen immediately thought of the blue-skinned shapeshifter previously portrayed by Rebecca Romijn and Jennifer Lawrence. “Oh my God. Wait, this is a really good question,” Keen replied. “I feel like you’d be a great Mystique. You’d be shapeshifting and back-flipping.”

While Nélisse is currently recognized for her role in Yellowjackets as a young Shauna, she initially pursued gymnastics, making her a fitting candidate for the acrobatic Mystique. Keen added, “I envision her as the perfect fit for the smooth infiltrator.” Another role that fans have suggested for Nélisse is Jean Grey, the powerful mutant with cosmic abilities. Keen agreed, stating, “I think you’d excel as Jean, too. I thought about that.” Nélisse, initially unaware of the character’s popularity, expressed enthusiasm, especially after Keen’s endorsement. “She’s powerful and cool,” Keen said. “And she has fabulous red hair.”

Jean Grey has been a significant character in the live-action X-Men films, portrayed by Famke Janssen and Sophie Turner over the years. Nélisse is ready to take on the challenge whenever Marvel decides to reboot the mutant team. “Perfect, I will be her,” she declared. Keen’s primary desire, however, is to continue acting alongside Nélisse, whether in the superhero genre or beyond, stating, “Honestly, I want her to be in anything that I’m in.”

While a release date for Whistle has yet to be announced, it will be available in theaters through IFC and Shudder. Stay tuned to Collider for updates on the horror film and the future of the X-Men. More coverage from SDCC will follow throughout the weekend.