15 Actors Who Could Shine as Cyclops in the MCU’s X-Men Reboot
The X-Men are finally joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and we’re thrilled to imagine who could bring the iconic mutant team to life. Scott Summers, aka Cyclops, is the X-Men’s steadfast leader, known for his optic blasts and unwavering loyalty to Professor X’s vision.
Casting Cyclops is a big deal—he needs to balance strength, vulnerability, and charisma to stand out in the MCU. Here are 15 actors who’ve never appeared in the MCU but could nail the role with their talent and presence.
15. Charlie Plummer
Charlie Plummer has a knack for playing intense yet sensitive characters, perfect for a younger Cyclops still mastering his powers. His work in ‘Lean on Pete’ (2017) shows he can carry emotional weight, making him a great fit for Scott’s early struggles.
Plummer’s youthful energy could ground a teenage Cyclops, capturing his journey from uncertainty to leadership. His ability to convey quiet strength would make Scott relatable and compelling.
14. Lucas Hedges
Lucas Hedges brings depth to complex roles, as seen in ‘Manchester by the Sea’ (2016). He could portray Cyclops as a young man wrestling with responsibility and self-doubt, a fresh take on the character.
His knack for blending charm and intensity would highlight Scott’s romantic side with Jean Grey while showcasing his growth into a confident leader. Hedges could make Cyclops a standout in a younger X-Men lineup.
13. Charles Melton
Known for ‘Riverdale’ (2017-2023), Charles Melton has the charisma and heart to play a Cyclops who’s both arrogant and fiercely protective. His role as Reggie shows he can balance bravado with loyalty.
Melton’s rom-com charm in ‘The Sun Is Also a Star’ (2019) would bring Scott’s love story with Jean Grey to life. He could make Cyclops a magnetic leader with emotional depth.
12. Jared Keeso
Jared Keeso, star of ‘Letterkenny’ (2016-2023), has a rugged charm that could redefine Cyclops as a grounded, no-nonsense leader. His ability to mix humor with intensity fits Scott’s serious demeanor.
Keeso’s experience leading an ensemble cast makes him a natural for Cyclops’ tactical role. He could bring a fresh, relatable edge to the character, avoiding the stereotype of a stiff leader.
11. Jack Champion
Jack Champion’s breakout in ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’ (2022) proves he can handle big franchises. His youthful energy and emotional range make him ideal for a young Cyclops finding his place.
Champion’s enthusiasm for the role, as he’s shared in interviews, shows he’d dive into Scott’s complex personality. He could portray a Cyclops who grows from a nervous teen to a bold hero.
10. Nick Robinson
Nick Robinson’s work in ‘Love, Simon’ (2018) highlights his ability to play heartfelt, nuanced characters. He’d be perfect for a Cyclops who’s confident yet vulnerable, especially in his early years.
His experience in ‘Jurassic World’ (2015) shows he can handle blockbuster action, making him a strong choice for Scott’s optic-blasting battles. Robinson could make Cyclops a fan favorite.
9. Brenton Thwaites
Brenton Thwaites led the team in ‘Titans’ (2018-2023) as Nightwing, proving he can portray a driven leader like Cyclops. His intense, focused performance fits Scott’s field commander vibe.
Thwaites’ ability to convey responsibility and grit would ground Cyclops as a hero who puts the team first. He could bring a commanding presence to the MCU’s X-Men.
8. Patrick Schwarzenegger
Patrick Schwarzenegger has shown promise in ‘Gen V’ (2023-present), blending charm with intensity. He could play a Cyclops who’s both a heartthrob and a strategic leader.
His connection to Nathan Summers (Cable) in the comics adds an intriguing layer, as he could hint at that family dynamic. Schwarzenegger’s rising star power makes him a bold choice.
7. Liam Hemsworth
Liam Hemsworth’s reserved strength in ‘The Hunger Games’ (2012-2015) mirrors Cyclops’ quiet leadership. His all-American look and military-like presence suit Scott’s disciplined nature.
Hemsworth’s ability to convey sensitivity beneath a tough exterior would add depth to Cyclops’ struggles with his powers. He could make Scott a relatable yet heroic figure.
6. Dacre Montgomery
Dacre Montgomery’s intense performance as Billy in ‘Stranger Things’ (2016-present) shows he can handle complex roles. He’d be great as a young Cyclops grappling with his destructive abilities.
His heroic turn in ‘Power Rangers’ (2017) proves he can lead with charisma, making him a fit for Scott’s evolution into the X-Men’s commander. Montgomery would bring energy to the role.
5. Sam Claflin
Sam Claflin’s mix of seriousness and charm in ‘The Hunger Games’ (2013-2015) makes him a strong Cyclops candidate. He can balance Scott’s stoic leadership with his emotional core.
His work in ‘Me Before You’ (2016) shows he can handle romance, perfect for Scott’s dynamic with Jean Grey. Claflin could make Cyclops a compelling, multifaceted hero.
4. Rahul Kohli
Rahul Kohli’s roles in ‘iZombie’ (2015-2019) and ‘Midnight Mass’ (2021) show his range, from witty to intense. He could bring a fresh, grounded take to Cyclops’ leadership.
Kohli’s experience in genre projects makes him ready for the MCU’s action-packed world. He’d portray Scott as a tactical leader with a relatable human side.
3. Glen Powell
Glen Powell’s star power in ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ (2022) makes him a standout choice for Cyclops. His charisma and confidence fit Scott’s role as the X-Men’s field leader.
Powell’s ability to blend humor and grit, as seen in ‘Set It Up’ (2018), would give Cyclops a modern edge. He could make Scott a fan-favorite hero in the MCU.
2. Jensen Ackles
Jensen Ackles’ commanding presence in ‘Supernatural’ (2005-2020) screams Cyclops. His ability to play a loyal, intense leader aligns perfectly with Scott’s personality.
Ackles’ action-hero chops and emotional depth, shown in ‘The Boys’ (2019-present), would make Cyclops both heroic and human. He’d bring gravitas to the X-Men’s leader.
1. Henry Cavill
Henry Cavill’s commanding performance as Superman in ‘Man of Steel’ (2013) proves he can lead as a powerful hero. His stature and intensity make him ideal for Cyclops.
Cavill’s work in ‘The Witcher’ (2019-present) shows he can handle complex, action-heavy roles with emotional depth. He’d make Cyclops a central, unforgettable figure in the MCU.
Which actor do you think would nail Cyclops, or did we miss your dream pick? Drop your thoughts in the comments!