Fan’s “Controversial” Take On Why Casting a Black Actor as Charles Xavier Would Not Work

With the release of Deadpool & Wolverine, Kevin Feige has announced the start of the mutant era in the MCU. While some X-Men and mutants have already appeared in MCU projects, the upcoming X-Men live-action reboot will introduce an entirely new cast.

Professor X was previously portrayed by Patrick Stewart in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, but this was an alternate variant, an Illuminati member who ultimately meets his end at the hands of Scarlet Witch.

Patrick Stewart was never intended to be the main Charles Xavier for the MCU, just as John Krasinski was not meant to be the MCU’s Mr. Fantastic. As a result, fans have been suggesting various actors for the role in future projects. With Marvel’s recent emphasis on inclusion, some of the actors proposed for the role are Black, such as David Oyelowo and Courtney B. Vance.

Supporters of this casting choice argue that Xavier and Magneto were inspired by Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X. While Chris Claremont has acknowledged these parallels, he has also cited other influences behind his version of the X-Men.

Typically, race-swapping characters can stir controversy, not because the character’s race inherently changes their role, but because people often resist change. When race-swaps are executed well, as with Nick Fury, they’re generally well-received. However, when diversity seems to be the sole motivation, it can lead to backlash.

So, what does this mean for the possibility of a Black Professor X in the MCU? According to a recent controversial opinion shared on X, some believe that Charles Xavier’s race is a significant aspect of his character, and therefore, he should not be portrayed as Black in the MCU.

The main argument is that Charles Xavier comes from a place of privilege and has never faced racism. In the comics, Xavier is depicted as being born into wealth and having an accomplished father. While his backstory includes personal trauma, it is not related to racial or class-based discrimination. His inherited wealth ultimately funded the X-Men, transforming his privilege into a force for good.

Although Xavier faces discrimination as a mutant, his condition can often be concealed. He can blend into society without revealing his mutant status, thus avoiding discrimination based on his mutation alone.

In contrast, the fan suggested that Magneto, a Jewish character who experienced racism during the Holocaust, could be portrayed as Black. Magneto’s origin story is deeply rooted in experiences of discrimination, making it more fitting for a Black portrayal compared to Xavier’s background.

Some fans supported this perspective in the comments.

What are your thoughts on this idea? Share your opinions in the comments below!