Bill Skarsgard and Tom Pelphrey Are Frontrunners for Professor X in X-Men Reboot, Insider Says

Marvel Studios has shortened its list of contenders for the role of the mutants’ school founder.

Marvel Studios continues preparations for the X-Men franchise reboot, and new details have emerged online regarding the casting search for the updated mutant team.

According to insider Jeff Sneider, the list of contenders for the role of mutant leader Charles Xavier has narrowed down to two candidates: Bill Skarsgård (“It”, “Nosferatu”) and Tom Pelphrey (“Ozark”, “Banshee”). Patrick Wilson (“The Conjuring”) was previously named among potential actors, but judging by the new information, his candidacy is no longer being considered.

Only two actresses from the upcoming Mutant Saga are officially confirmed so far. Samara Weaving has been cast as Emma Frost, and Sadie Sink debuted as Jean Grey in the film “Spider-Man: Brand New Day”. Marvel is expected to reveal additional cast members during the annual D23 convention, which will take place from August 14 to August 16, 2026.

The new version of the X-Men will be directed by “Thunderbolts” director Jake Schreier. Filming and release dates for the movie have not yet been announced. Before the reboot, audiences will see Professor X again as played by Patrick Stewart in “Avengers: Doomsday”, which releases on December 18, 2026.