One of the absolute best audience gasping moments – of which there are many – in Marvel’s Deadpool vs. Wolverine is undoubtedly seeing Channing Tatum’s long-awaited portrayal of Gambit. The surprising cameo has quickly reignited interest in the character, and a recently released behind-the-scenes snippet [watch it below] has further fuelled speculation about what could be next for the fan-favourite mutant. After all, Tatum’s history with Gambit is well-known – he has been eager to bring the Ragin’ Cajun to life for years – only to see his solo film repeatedly stalled. With his performance in Deadpool vs. Wolverine, however, the doors have never been opened wider for Tatum’s Gambit to kinetically power his way into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

With his performance in Deadpool vs. Wolverine, the doors have never been opened wider for Tatum's Gambit to kinetically power his way into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

The Journey to Gambit

Tatum’s journey with Gambit began in the early 2010s when 20th Century Fox was still the custodian of the X-Men franchise. Back then, a Gambit solo film was in the works, with Tatum set to star and produce. Alas, the project languished in development limbo for nearly a decade. The final nail in the coffin came with Disney’s acquisition of Fox, leading to the shelving of several planned X-Men projects, including Gambit. The merger left fans of the actor wondering if they would ever see him don the iconic trench coat or wield Gambit’s signature kinetically charged playing cards.

Yet, fate had other plans. Tatum’s perseverance seemingly paid off when Ryan Reynolds and the team behind Deadpool vs. Wolverine decided to give him a shot. The film, which has already shattered box office records, finally allowed Tatum to step into the role he had long coveted. His portrayal of Gambit, complete with a thick Cajun accent and a comic-accurate costume, was well-received by audiences who have been eagerly waiting for this very moment!

With his performance in Deadpool vs. Wolverine, the doors have never been opened wider for Tatum's Gambit to kinetically power his way into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

The Behind-the-Scenes Snippet: A Glimpse into the Future?

Although never officially acknowledged, many are under the impression Ryan Reynolds was behind the “leaked” footage of Deadpool, which eventually lead to the film being made. Well, it appears as if Mr Aviation Gin is once again skirting the lines with some newly released behind-the-scenes footage of Gambit in Deadpool vs. Wolverine, which has fans positively buzzing. The snippet clearly shows Gambit having survived the chaotic events of the film, leaving the possibility open for the character to return in future MCU projects. In the film, Gambit’s fate seemed uncertain when the character was seemingly trapped in the Void, a mysterious and dangerous realm. However, the clip (watch it below) suggests he may have found a way out, possibly returning to his original universe.

This revelation has significant implications for the future of the character and the MCU at large. If Gambit indeed escaped the Void, it paves the way for Tatum to reprise the role in future films. Given the MCU’s focus on the multiverse, there is a strong possibility Gambit could cross paths with other iconic Marvel characters, perhaps even teaming up with or opposing Deadpool and Wolverine again.

What This Means for Channing Tatum’s Gambit

The survival of Tatum’s Gambit opens up a multitude of storytelling avenues. Firstly, it raises the question of whether Marvel Studios might reconsider the Gambit solo film. Tatum has expressed his desire to revisit the character in a standalone project, and with the success of Deadpool vs. Wolverine, the timing appears to be right on cue. The MCU has been increasingly open to exploring characters who, in the past, might not have been considered bankable enough for their own films. Given Gambit’s popularity among comic book fans and Tatum’s star power, a solo film could be a hit.

Moreover, Gambit’s survival could mean he becomes a recurring character in the MCU, similar to how Deadpool has been integrated into the broader universe. With the MCU exploring themes of the multiverse and alternate realities, there are endless possibilities for Gambit to appear in unexpected places, potentially even interacting with other mutants as Marvel gradually reintroduces the X-Men [something fans have been waiting decades for].

With his performance in Deadpool vs. Wolverine, the doors have never been opened wider for Tatum's Gambit to kinetically power his way into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

Fan Reaction and Future Speculation

It goes without saying how the response from fans has been overwhelmingly positive. Many have taken to social media to express their excitement about the possibility of seeing more of Tatum’s Gambit. The character’s brief, but memorable, appearance in Deadpool vs. Wolverine has left audiences craving for more, and the behind-the-scenes footage has only intensified this desire.

As previously alluded to, there is also speculation that the snippet could be a deliberate tease from Marvel Studios, gauging fan interest in the character (versus a pure Reynolds tease – since the scene is way too polished). If the reaction is strong enough, it could very well influence the studio’s decision-making regarding Gambit’s future in the MCU. Tatum himself has been vocal about his love for the character, and it is clear he is eager to continue playing Gambit for as long as Marvel will let him.

With his performance in Deadpool vs. Wolverine, the doors have never been opened wider for Tatum's Gambit to kinetically power his way into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

What is next for Tatum’s Gambit?

Channing Tatum’s Gambit has finally arrived, and the recent behind-the-scenes footage from Deadpool vs. Wolverine has given fans the hope they have long yearned for. The character’s fate has clearly been left tantalisingly open-ended for Tatum to reprise the role in future MCU projects. Whether that takes the shape of a solo film or merely as part of a larger ensemble, one thing is clear: Gambit’s story is far from over, and Channing Tatum is ready to tell it.

As fans await official word from Marvel Studios, one can only hope the Ragin’ Cajun’s adventures are far from finished. With the multiverse in play and the MCU constantly evolving, the possibilities for Gambit are endless. Whether he’s stealing hearts or stealing the show, Tatum’s Gambit is here to stay… and slay.

Channing Tatum’s Gambit gets a sneaky new Deadpool vs. Wolverine easter egg, which has sparked interest in the character's possible return to the MCU.
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Owner, founder and editor-in-chief at Vamers, Hans has a vested interest in geek culture and the interactive entertainment industry. With a Masters degree in Communications and Ludology, he is well read and versed in matters relating to video games and communication media, among many other topics of interest.

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