Alan Cumming is set to reprise his role as Nightcrawler in Marvel’s highly anticipated upcoming film, Avengers: Doomsday, which is scheduled for release on May 1, 2026. Cumming, who originally portrayed the character in 2003’s X2: X-Men United, expressed his excitement on social media following the live-streamed cast reveal where the film's lineup was announced.
During the live stream, fans were treated to a five-hour spectacle that felt like an avant-garde performance art piece, showcasing the cast of the new Avengers film. The event featured a series of empty director’s chairs as names were revealed, including notable actors such as Chris Hemsworth (Thor), Anthony Mackie (Captain America), and Letitia Wright (Black Panther). The stream culminated with a brief appearance by Robert Downey Jr., who will take on the role of Doctor Doom, leaving viewers in suspense about the film's direction.
Cumming shared a video of himself practicing his Nightcrawler moves on Instagram, captioning it, “Never say never.” His return marks a significant moment for fans of the franchise, particularly as he reunites with fellow X-Men actors Patrick Stewart (Professor X), Ian McKellen (Magneto), Rebecca Romijn (Mystique), and James Marsden (Cyclops) in this new installment.
In a recent interview, Cumming reflected on his experience in the original X-Men film, stating, “I think the X-Men film I’m in is the gayest film that I’ve ever done, and that’s me saying that.” He praised the film's inclusive approach, noting its queer director and cast. Cumming emphasized the importance of representation in mainstream media, saying, “I love the fact that something so mainstream and so in the comic book world is so queer.” He believes that such films help audiences understand queerness through an artistic lens, making it less intimidating.
However, the announcement of the cast has left some fans feeling a bit deflated. Many notable characters, including Tom Holland’s Spider-Man and Elizabeth Olsen’s Scarlet Witch, were not confirmed, leading to speculation about their involvement. The author of a recent article expressed disappointment at the absence of these characters, particularly as Spider-Man 4 is set to release after Doomsday on July 31, 2026.
Fans are eager to see how the film will integrate characters from the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) alongside the returning X-Men cast. The announcement also included the Fantastic Four, featuring actors such as Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach. Additionally, the entire cast of the upcoming film Thunderbolts will be joining the lineup.
As excitement builds, many are left wondering how the film will balance nostalgia with fresh storytelling. The return of almost the entire main cast of the 2000s X-Men films raises questions about their roles and whether they will merely be cameos or integral to the plot. The film is shaping up to be a massive crossover event, but the lack of clarity regarding the inclusion of other key characters has left fans speculating.
Marvel's strategy appears to be a mix of nostalgia and innovation, aiming to captivate audiences with familiar faces while introducing new narratives. The studio's decision to bring back beloved characters from the X-Men franchise highlights the interconnectedness of the Marvel universe, especially following Disney's acquisition of 20th Century Fox.
As the release date approaches, Marvel fans are hopeful that Avengers: Doomsday will deliver a compelling story that honors its legacy while paving the way for future films. The anticipation surrounding the film reflects the enduring popularity of the franchise and the deep connections fans have with its characters.
In the meantime, discussions continue regarding which characters may yet be announced. Speculation includes the potential for appearances by Tom Holland as Spider-Man, Benedict Cumberbatch as Doctor Strange, Ryan Reynolds as Deadpool, Hugh Jackman as Wolverine, and Elizabeth Olsen as Scarlet Witch. Each of these characters holds significant weight in the MCU, and their absence from the initial cast announcement has fans eager for more information.
As the Marvel Cinematic Universe continues to expand, Avengers: Doomsday stands as a pivotal moment, potentially bridging the gap between past and future narratives. Will it be a masterstroke of fan service or a muddled attempt at nostalgia? Only time will tell as the film gears up for its 2026 release.
