Just few weeks ago, "Gambit" was teased at San Diego Comic-Con, it is supposed to be the fourth solo film to be released as part of Fox's successful Marvel franchise, but the filming of the anticipated movie is on the rocks after its lead star, Channing Tatum, reportedly plans to leave the "X-Men" spinoff, according to The Wrap.
Tatum has openly expressed his interest in leading "Gambit," which encouraged 20th Century Fox to put the movie in production; however, other plans may have come up, which led to his decision in leaving the movie.
Cinema Blend states that the team has already started making small steps into production. They have just hired Rupert Wyatt to helm a few weeks ago. It is not yet confirmed if Tatum and his producing partner, Reid Carolin, will still be involved in the production since Tatum is to star and produce the film. However, the report suggests that Simon Kinberg and Lauren Shuler Donner are still producing the project.
This problem should be resolved since the flick is scheduled to premiere on October 7, 2016. If, in case, Tatum will really leave "Gambit," a replacement for Remy LeBeau will be needed. Cinema Blend lists five actors that might give justice to the character as Tatum can.
1. Taylor Kitsch
He played the original "Gambit" in "X-Men Origins: Wolverine." Although the said film received a number of negative reviews, many noticed Kitsch's performance as the Ragin' Cajun, Wolverine's adversary-turned-ally. According to the report, it would be "unprecedented to turn back to the guy that originally played Gambit" if Tatum makes his exit.
2. Gaspard Uliel
Uliel is French and this is an advantage as it will be easier for him to replicate Gambit's trademark accent. He has an uncanny resemblance to the mutant. With a trench coat, headpiece and a deck of cards, he would be a perfect "Gambit."
3. Jared Padalecki
According to Cinemablend, the actor has the same looks as Remy LeBeau in the comics. He has enough experience with action films and has a built-in fanbase, which may help fill the theaters when the film is released.
4. Matt Bomer
This guy turned down Warner Bros. offer to play Superman and although his looks are far from Gambit, he has taken a role similar to Gambit when he played the character of Neal Caffrey in the USA series "White Collar."
5. Alexander Skarsgård
He plays Erich Northman on HBO's "True Blood." Northman is a complicated and dark figure similar to "Gambit," so the role will not be new to him. Also, he bears a resemblance to the Ragin' Cajun.