In a groundbreaking announcement that has sent shockwaves through the superhero fandom, Hugh Jackman, the iconic actor who brought Wolverine to life for over two decades, has officially named Henry Cavill as his successor for the role in a new universe distinct from the X-Men franchise. The statement, made during a live-streamed event on March 31, 2025, in Los Angeles, marks a pivotal moment for Marvel fans as the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) continues to expand its multiverse narrative. Jackman’s endorsement of Cavill, coupled with his glowing praise—“He does very well in the superhero movie genre, his physique also looks very similar to Wolverine. He deserves this role”—has ignited both excitement and debate among fans, setting the stage for a new chapter in Wolverine’s cinematic legacy.

Jackman’s tenure as Wolverine began in 2000 with Fox’s X-Men, where he quickly became the face of the franchise, portraying the clawed mutant across nine films, culminating in the critically acclaimed Logan in 2017. His return in 2024’s Deadpool & Wolverine, which grossed over $1 billion and became the highest-grossing R-rated movie of all time, reaffirmed his indelible mark on the character. However, with the MCU’s acquisition of the X-Men rights and the introduction of the multiverse, the door has opened for new interpretations of beloved characters. Jackman’s announcement clarifies that Cavill’s Wolverine will not be part of the X-Men universe but rather a standalone universe, potentially tied to a new MCU project that explores alternate realities, a concept already teased in Deadpool & Wolverine where Cavill made a brief cameo as a Wolverine variant dubbed “Cavillrine.”

During the event, Jackman elaborated on his decision, reflecting on his 24-year journey as Wolverine and his desire to pass the torch to someone capable of honoring the character’s legacy while bringing a fresh perspective. “I’ve lived with Logan for half my life, and I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve done,” he said, his voice tinged with emotion. “But the multiverse gives us a chance to see new stories, and Henry is the perfect choice. He’s proven himself in the superhero genre with Superman, and his physicality—those shoulders, that intensity—screams Wolverine. He’s got the grit, the heart, and he deserves this role.” Jackman’s comments highlight Cavill’s experience as Superman in the DC Extended Universe (DCEU), where he starred in Man of Steel (2013), Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016), and Justice League (2017), earning praise for his commanding presence despite the polarizing reception of the films.

Cavill’s cameo in Deadpool & Wolverine had already sparked speculation about his potential to take on the role permanently. In the film, he appeared as a rugged Wolverine variant, complete with a cigar and the character’s signature sideburns, delivering a punch that sent Deadpool flying. The scene, though brief, showcased Cavill’s ability to embody Wolverine’s ferocity, and director Shawn Levy later revealed that Cavill endured hours of cigar smoke inhalation for the shoot, a testament to his commitment. Fans on social media platforms like X have been divided, with some celebrating the casting—“Cavill as Wolverine is a dream come true!”—while others remain loyal to Jackman, arguing that no one can replicate his raw, animalistic portrayal.

The new universe, described as “not X-Men,” suggests Marvel Studios is exploring a solo Wolverine narrative, possibly focusing on standalone adventures that don’t intersect with the mutant team. This aligns with recent rumors that the MCU’s X-Men reboot, currently in development with a script by Michael Lesslie, does not include Wolverine, allowing for separate explorations of the character. Cavill’s Wolverine could headline a project that delves into Logan’s multiversal variants, a concept already popular in the MCU’s Multiverse Saga, which will culminate in Avengers: Secret Wars in 2027. Jackman’s involvement in that film remains unconfirmed, but his announcement hints at a future where both he and Cavill could coexist as different versions of the same character.

As the MCU continues to evolve, Cavill’s casting offers a chance to reimagine Wolverine for a new generation. His proven track record in action roles, from The Witcher to Mission: Impossible – Fallout, combined with his physical resemblance to the comic book Wolverine—broad-shouldered, intense, and battle-ready—makes him a fitting choice. While some fans may never let go of Jackman’s legacy, Cavill’s upcoming portrayal, backed by Jackman’s heartfelt endorsement, promises to bring a fresh yet respectful take on the beloved mutant. The Wolverine mantle has been passed, and the world waits to see if Cavill can truly make it his own.