I can only imagine that 20th Century Fox is quietly figuring out what to do with their X-Men franchise. The contracts are up for many of the big name, key players in this summer’s “X-Men: Apocalypse” which means that if they want to continue with more mutant adventures, the studio will not only have to convince them to return, but likely offer a sizeable pay increase. And then there’s Hugh Jackman‘s beloved Wolverine, who will finally be hanging up the claws after next year’s still untitled “Wolverine 3.” And it looks like the studio may have to deal with one more actor and character exiting their universe.
Patrick Stewart, who like Jackman has been with the franchise since 2000’s “X-Men,” sees his role as Professor Charles Xavier coming to an end after “Wolverine 3.”
“I can’t say because I don’t know, but I would imagine this is probably the end of this franchise for me. But the thing about science fiction and fantasy is that you can never, ever say it’s the end, it’s over,” the actor told ITV, referring to his return after his character was killed by Jean Grey.
However, if it’s indeed his final turn, it would seem he’s going out with a take on Charles Xavier that will be something unique.
“In March, I’m going to be back on the screen again. A very different Charles Xavier, that’s all I’m allowed to say. Nothing like the Charles Xavier you’ve seen in the past,” Stewart teased.
So, you might want to bring extra Kleenex when you go to see “Wolverine 3” on March 3, 2017 because it looks like you’ll be saying goodbye to two longtime members of the X-Men movie universe. [Collider]