Why were The X-Men absent from MCU all this while?

Hugh Jackman, renowned for his portrayal of Wolverine in the X-Men franchise, has become synonymous with the iconic character. Marvel fans eagerly anticipated the integration of X-Men into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) following Disney’s acquisition of Fox. The upcoming film “Deadpool & Wolverine,” slated for release in 2024, is poised to be a game-changer in this regard.

This film marks Marvel Studios’ first use of newly acquired movie franchises from Fox, with Hugh Jackman reprising his role as Wolverine alongside Ryan Reynolds as Deadpool. The announcement of Jackman’s return has sparked intense curiosity and debates, especially since his last appearance as Wolverine in “Logan” (2017).

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One intriguing element the film proposes is an explanation for why the X-Men have not appeared in the MCU so far. A theory circulating among fans, notably highlighted by a Reddit user named yoyofro25, speculates on Wolverine’s involvement in the demise of the mutant heroes. The movie’s trailer hints at a version of Wolverine burdened by guilt, potentially suggesting his role in the tragic fate of the X-Men.

According to this theory, Wolverine may have been manipulated by Cassandra Nova, a formidable adversary known for her ability to control minds and orchestrate catastrophic events. In the comics, Cassandra Nova has been responsible for significant mutant casualties, such as the genocide in Genosha. This storyline posits that Wolverine’s actions, possibly under Nova’s influence, led to the downfall of the X-Men, explaining their absence in the MCU timeline.

The notion of Wolverine being implicated in the deaths of his fellow mutants echoes storylines from the comics, such as “Old Man Logan,” where he unknowingly commits atrocities under manipulation. The film “Logan” drew inspiration from these dark narratives, further solidifying Wolverine’s complex character arc.

While the film “Deadpool & Wolverine” explores these darker themes, it also sets the stage for the eventual introduction of mutants into the MCU. Marvel Studios has gradually teased the presence of mutants through multiverse cameos and references, paving the way for their full integration.

Looking ahead, the MCU’s Multiverse Saga offers potential pathways for the X-Men’s introduction. The concept of multiverse incursions, where different universes collide, could merge the X-Men’s Earth with the main MCU reality, preserving its mutant population. Alternatively, a reboot post “Avengers: Secret Wars” could redefine the MCU landscape, potentially integrating the X-Men alongside other iconic heroes.

“Deadpool & Wolverine” is poised to bridge the gap between Fox’s X-Men universe and Marvel Studios’ MCU, leveraging Hugh Jackman’s return and exploring nuanced themes. It promises to be a pivotal moment in MCU development, offering insights into the absence of X-Men while setting the stage for their resurgence in future Marvel films.