Disney completed its acquisition of Twentieth Century Fox in 2019, yet fans are still waiting for the X-Men to appear in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). So far, audiences have only been treated to brief references to mutants in Ms. Marvel and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. Although Deadpool 3 will feature Ryan Reynolds’ Deadpool and Hugh Jackman‘s Wolverine, it seems more focused on former Fox characters rather than introducing the X-Men to the wider MCU.

Marvel Studios’ Long-Term Planning

Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige has acknowledged the company’s plans to introduce the X-Men into the MCU but has not provided any details. Brian Volk-Weiss, producer of Vice’s Docuseries Icons Unearthed: Marvel, discussed why Marvel is taking its time with the X-Men introduction. He believes it’s a smart move because the company thinks in five-year blocks and can’t just put the X-Men into production on a whim. Marvel has to methodically plant the creative seeds in upcoming movies, find the right script, director, and cast, which all takes time.

Five-Year Blocks And The Future Of The MCU

Disney CEO Bob Iger has also mentioned these five-year blocks, emphasizing the need to explore new characters and stories. The MCU is expected to introduce a new set of Avengers in the coming years, further expanding the universe.

Is The Delay A Good Strategy?

Delaying the introduction of the X-Men is likely a wise decision, considering the MCU’s already extensive roster of characters and stories. With recent delays, Marvel Studios may be struggling to keep up with its own ambitious plans. Integrating the X-Men could be even more challenging. One possibility is using the upcoming Avengers: Secret Wars as a reset point, allowing for an easier introduction of mutants and the potential recasting or repositioning of other key characters. For now, Deadpool 3 will be the next film to feature mutants, possibly hinting at more surprises for the audience.