The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is undergoing a dynamic evolution, with new faces taking over iconic roles and beloved characters being reinvented for future projects. One such change has caught the attention of both fans and critics alike: the possibility of Dafne Keen, who originally portrayed Laura/X-23 in Logan (2017), stepping into the role of Wolverine. As Hugh Jackman’s portrayal of Wolverine remains one of the most iconic in superhero cinema, the news that Dafne Keen might continue the legacy has sparked excitement and discussion across the Marvel fan base.
After her critically acclaimed role as X-23, Keen has expressed interest in continuing as Wolverine in the MCU. Fans, who have grown attached to her fierce and nuanced portrayal of the character, are now speculating about what a future Wolverine could look like with Keen leading the charge. Her recent appearance in Deadpool & Wolverine further solidified this possibility, and in an interview with Empire Magazine, Keen revealed her enthusiasm for the role, stating, “I would 100% do this for the rest of my life.”
In 2017, Logan introduced the world to Dafne Keen as Laura, aka X-23, a genetically modified clone of Wolverine. As the daughter of Wolverine, X-23 inherits many of his powers, including enhanced healing, heightened senses, and retractable claws, while also bringing her own brutal fighting style to the table. Keen’s performance was widely praised for its intensity and emotional depth, which made her a standout character in the film. Her chemistry with Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine was undeniable, and her portrayal left audiences craving more of X-23 in future Marvel projects.
Now, with Hugh Jackman’s future in the MCU uncertain, many are speculating that Dafne Keen is primed to take over the mantle. Jackman has previously indicated that Logan was his final appearance as Wolverine, although recent developments—such as his return alongside Ryan Reynolds in Deadpool 3—suggest that he may have one last run left. Nevertheless, should Jackman ultimately decide to retire the character for good, Keen is an obvious choice to continue the legacy. Fans have expressed their approval of this potential casting, with one Reddit user commenting, “If they can’t get Hugh Jackman to continue, this is a good idea.”
The excitement surrounding Dafne Keen potentially taking over as Wolverine is rooted in her portrayal of X-23 in Logan. As a young actress, Keen brought a sense of raw ferocity to the role, making her a natural fit for the mantle of Wolverine. Not only did she embody the physicality of the character, but she also delivered a poignant performance that showcased Laura’s inner struggle and vulnerability. This blend of strength and sensitivity resonated with fans, many of whom now believe that Keen is the perfect successor to Jackman’s Wolverine.
One reason fans are enthusiastic about Keen’s possible return is her unique take on the character. While Jackman’s Wolverine is known for his gruff, world-weary demeanor, Keen’s X-23 offers a fresh perspective. She is younger, more impulsive, and grappling with her identity as a clone. This gives the character room to grow and evolve over time, providing an opportunity for the MCU to explore new storylines and character dynamics. As one Reddit user noted, “If she is truly prepared for that, then I’d love her to be X-23 forever.”
Moreover, Keen has already proven that she can hold her own alongside seasoned actors like Hugh Jackman and Patrick Stewart, which bodes well for her future in the MCU. Her ability to balance action-packed fight scenes with moments of emotional depth makes her a versatile actress who can carry the weight of such an iconic character.
While fans are largely supportive of Keen taking over as Wolverine, some have raised concerns about the physical and emotional demands of the role. Playing Wolverine is no easy task, as Hugh Jackman himself has frequently discussed the intense physical preparation required to embody the character. From grueling workout regimens to strict diets, becoming Wolverine requires a significant commitment to fitness and endurance.
For Dafne Keen, the challenges extend beyond just the physical aspects. Wolverine is a beloved character with a long and storied history in both comics and films, and the expectations placed on anyone who takes on the role are immense. One fan voiced this concern, stating, “The expectation on X-23 each film would be huge. I hope she knows what would be expected of her.”
Despite these challenges, Keen seems more than ready to embrace the responsibility. In her interview with Empire Magazine, she expressed her eagerness to continue playing Wolverine, highlighting her passion for the character and her willingness to take on the challenges that come with it. As she stated, “I would 100% do this for the rest of my life.”
Marvel fans have taken to social media to express their excitement about the possibility of Dafne Keen becoming the next Wolverine. Supporters have flooded Reddit and Twitter with messages of encouragement, with one fan declaring, “LET HER DO IT SHE IS PERFECT IN THE ROLE IF SHE GETS RECAST WE RIOT.” It’s clear that Keen has already won over a significant portion of the fanbase, and many are eager to see how she would make the role her own in future MCU projects.
Of course, the prospect of Keen taking on the Wolverine mantle raises questions about how the character will fit into the broader MCU. With the X-Men set to be integrated into the MCU in the coming years, fans are speculating about potential storylines and crossovers. Could Keen’s Wolverine join forces with the Avengers, or will she carve out her own path as a solo hero? The possibilities are endless, and Marvel fans are excited to see where the character goes next.
Beyond her acting prowess, Dafne Keen has also dabbled in the world of modeling, further showcasing her versatility as a rising star. While her primary focus remains on acting, her experience in front of the camera has undoubtedly contributed to her ability to command attention on screen. Her striking features and undeniable presence make her a natural fit for both acting and modeling, and as she continues to rise in prominence, it wouldn’t be surprising to see her pursue more opportunities in the fashion world.
As the MCU continues to expand, the role of Wolverine will undoubtedly play a key part in future storylines. Whether Hugh Jackman returns for another appearance or passes the torch to Dafne Keen, fans can rest assured that the legacy of Wolverine is in good hands. Keen’s passion for the character, combined with her impressive acting skills, makes her a compelling choice to take over the mantle and lead a new generation of X-Men into the MCU.
For now, Marvel fans are eagerly awaiting the next chapter in the Wolverine saga, and with Dafne Keen at the helm, the future looks incredibly promising.