Laurence Fishburne Hopes to Play Professor X: ‘It Feels Like It Would Be Fit for Me’

Laurence Fishburne has shared why he would love to take on the role of Professor X in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

In a recent interview with ComicBook while promoting the upcoming fourth season of Netflix’s The Witcher, the actor explained that his interest isn’t just about being the right age for the character, it comes from a lifelong love of Marvel.

“I am a true believer in terms of the Marvel space,” Fishburne said. “Whether it’s Marvel comic books or the MCU. I was reading comic books at the age of six in New York City, and those writers and those artists were talking about things that were happening in the city that I was growing up in.”

“So, of course, there are many characters in the Marvel Universe that I related to that I wished I could have played when I was younger. But I’m very, very pleased with the way the movies have been cast. I’m very, very pleased with the way that they have played out. I’m a huge fan of all of those movies.”

He added that at this stage in his career, Professor X feels like the perfect role for him. “Professor X, at the moment, is, I feel, the most appropriate character for me to play at the age that I am at this point. And for the kind of roles that I am known for. It feels like it would be fit for me. So that’s why.”

Fishburne also hinted at ideas for how he could make his version of Professor X unique, joking about potentially bringing back the iconic, distinctive eyebrows from the comics. “Well, I will speak to them if I am fortunate enough to fulfill this dream. If I am fortunate enough to realize that dream, I will certainly make the request about the eyebrows.”

The character of Charles Xavier has been portrayed on the big screen twice before. Patrick Stewart originated the role in 2000’s X-Men and returned for multiple sequels and even an MCU appearance. James McAvoy played a younger Xavier in X-Men: First Class and its follow-ups. Stewart is expected to appear one last time in Avengers: Doomsday, but the future of the character beyond that is unclear.

Laurence Fishburne’s interest in stepping into the iconic role shows his passion for Marvel and his excitement about joining the superhero universe. It would be interesting to see how his experience and unique approach could bring a fresh perspective to Professor X.

What do you think about Laurence Fishburne as Professor X? Could he be the next face of the X-Men in the MCU? Share your thoughts in the comments.