(Image: Esquire, Marvel Comics, 20th Century Studios)
Casting rumors for the new "X-Men" have been swirling, but while previous reports focused on the team members, the latest buzz is all about the villains. According to industry scooper MyTimeToShineHello in a recent post on X, Marvel Studios is currently eyeing Javier Bardem to play the villainous Mister Sinister.
Bardem was rumored two years ago to be in talks with Marvel for the role of the villain Galactus in the new "Fantastic Four" film, "The Fantastic Four: First Steps." However, a deal couldn't be reached due to scheduling conflicts with Bardem's filming commitments for Brad Pitt's "F1" racing movie. The role ultimately went to Ralph Ineson.
(Image: Marvel Studios)
Furthermore, the choice of Mister Sinister as the villain for the new "X-Men" appears to be a well-established plan. Two years ago, another prominent scooper, Daniel Richtman, disclosed that Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige wanted Mister Sinister to be the inaugural villain for the new series, and it seems that plan remains unchanged.
However, Mister Sinister might not be the only classic "X-Men" villain Marvel has plans for. According to journalist Jeff Sneider on his YouTube show "The Hot Mic," Denzel Washington, who has personally confirmed his involvement in "Black Panther 3," could very well be appearing in the film as Magneto. Washington has occasionally been rumored for the role of the new Magneto, and many fans feel he is a perfect fit. Whether this comes to pass will depend on Marvel's final announcement.