15 Actresses Who Could Shine as Jean Grey in the MCU
Jean Grey is one of Marvel’s most iconic characters, a powerful mutant with telepathic and telekinetic abilities, known for her emotional depth and complex journey as Phoenix. With the X-Men set to join the Marvel Cinematic Universe, casting the perfect actress to bring this character to life is a hot topic.
We’re excited to explore actresses who could embody Jean’s strength, vulnerability, and fiery spirit. These talented women bring unique skills to capture her essence in a fresh way.
15. Kennedy McMann
Kennedy McMann has made waves as the lead in ‘Nancy Drew’ (2019-2023), showcasing her ability to portray a smart, determined young woman. Her knack for balancing curiosity and emotional weight makes her a strong fit for a younger Jean Grey.
Her relative newness to the industry brings a fresh energy, perfect for a mutant discovering her powers. McMann’s ability to convey quiet strength could ground Jean’s complex journey in a relatable way.
14. Anya Taylor-Joy
Anya Taylor-Joy stunned audiences in ‘The Queen’s Gambit’ (2020), proving she can handle intricate, emotionally charged roles. Her ethereal presence and intense gaze could bring a haunting depth to Jean’s struggle with her powers.
She’s no stranger to layered characters, as seen in ‘The Witch’ (2015). Her ability to convey inner turmoil would make Jean’s transformation into Phoenix both captivating and heartbreaking.
13. Zoey Deutch
Zoey Deutch has a natural charm that lights up the screen in ‘Zombieland: Double Tap’ (2019). Her blend of wit and emotional depth would suit Jean’s dynamic with the X-Men team.
Her dramatic work in ‘Before I Fall’ (2017) shows she can tackle heavier moments. Deutch’s versatility could bring a fresh, relatable take to Jean’s journey from hero to Phoenix.
12. Victoria Pedretti
Victoria Pedretti’s performances in ‘The Haunting of Hill House’ (2018) and ‘You’ (2019-2021) reveal her skill in portraying raw emotion. Her ability to navigate intense psychological roles makes her a great pick for Jean.
She brings authenticity to characters grappling with inner demons, which aligns perfectly with Jean’s battle against her darker side. Pedretti’s intensity would make Phoenix’s rise unforgettable.
11. Naomi Scott
Naomi Scott impressed as Princess Jasmine in ‘Aladdin’ (2019) and the Pink Ranger in ‘Power Rangers’ (2017). Her charisma and action experience would fit Jean’s role as a powerful yet grounded mutant.
Her ability to convey strength and tenderness would add depth to Jean’s relationships. Scott’s star power could make her a standout in the X-Men ensemble.
10. Conor Leslie
Conor Leslie shone as Wonder Girl in ‘Titans’ (2018-2023), bringing confidence and heart to a superhero role. Her experience in a team dynamic makes her a natural fit for Jean within the X-Men.
Her likability and poise would ground Jean’s telepathic abilities. Leslie’s ability to balance action and emotion could make her a compelling Phoenix.
9. Sydney Sweeney
Sydney Sweeney captivated audiences in ‘Euphoria’ (2019-2025), showing her range in portraying complex, vulnerable characters. Her emotional depth would suit Jean’s struggle with her immense power.
Her work in ‘The White Lotus’ (2021) highlights her ability to steal scenes. Sweeney’s raw intensity could bring a fresh, youthful energy to Jean’s iconic arc.
8. Maika Monroe
Maika Monroe’s chilling performance in ‘It Follows’ (2014) proves she can handle high-stakes, eerie roles. Her quiet strength would suit Jean’s telepathic struggles and Phoenix transformation.
Her work in ‘The Guest’ (2014) shows she can balance action and mystery. Monroe’s understated intensity could make Jean’s journey both gripping and grounded.
7. Sadie Sink
Sadie Sink broke out in ‘Stranger Things’ (2017-2025), showcasing her ability to portray raw emotion and resilience. Her youth and talent make her ideal for a teenage Jean discovering her powers.
Her performance in ‘The Whale’ (2022) highlights her dramatic range. Sink’s ability to convey vulnerability and strength could make Jean’s arc deeply moving.
6. Elle Fanning
Elle Fanning’s work in ‘Maleficent’ (2014) and ‘The Neon Demon’ (2016) shows her ability to portray ethereal yet powerful characters. Her grace would suit Jean’s telepathic elegance.
Her emotional depth in ‘20th Century Women’ (2016) proves she can handle complex roles. Fanning’s star quality could make Jean a standout in the MCU.
5. Jane Levy
Jane Levy has proven her range across genres, starring in the horror hit ‘Don’t Breathe’ and the musical series ‘Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist’ (2020-2021). Her knack for intense, emotional roles suits Jean’s struggle with her powers.
Levy’s ability to portray vulnerability and strength would make her a compelling choice. She could bring a grounded yet fierce energy to Jean’s psychic battles.
4. Kaya Scodelario
Kaya Scodelario stood out in ‘Skins’ (2007-2013) and ‘Crawl’. Her ability to portray fierce, resilient characters makes her a great fit for Jean Grey’s intensity.
Scodelario’s commanding presence would suit Jean’s leadership qualities. She could deliver a powerful performance as the Phoenix Force takes hold.
3. Keke Palmer
Keke Palmer’s versatility in ‘Nope’ (2022) and ‘Hustlers’ (2019) makes her a standout choice. Her charisma and strength would suit Jean’s role as a powerful mutant.
Her work in ‘Akeelah and the Bee’ (2006) shows her ability to convey vulnerability. Palmer’s dynamic energy could bring a fresh spin to Jean’s Phoenix arc.
2. Amandla Stenberg
Amandla Stenberg’s powerful performance in ‘The Hate U Give’ (2018) showcases her ability to handle heavy emotional roles. Her poise would fit Jean’s telepathic complexity.
Her work in ‘Everything, Everything’ (2017) highlights her charm and depth. Stenberg’s youthful energy could make Jean’s journey resonate with audiences.
1. Saoirse Ronan
Saoirse Ronan’s stellar performances in ‘Lady Bird’ (2017) and ‘Brooklyn’ (2015) prove her ability to portray nuanced, emotional characters. Her depth would make Jean’s struggle gripping.
Her work in ‘Atonement’ (2007) shows she can handle complex roles with ease. Ronan’s commanding presence would make her a perfect Jean Grey.
Which actress do you think would nail Jean Grey’s role, or did we miss someone perfect for the part? Share your thoughts in the comments!