Marvel fans may have a new name to watch in the search for the next live-action Gambit. Outer Banks star Drew Starkey has reportedly emerged as a potential candidate to portray Remy LeBeau in Marvel Studios' upcoming X-Men reboot.
The speculation has generated considerable interest among superhero fans, particularly because Gambit remains one of the most popular characters in the X-Men universe. However, Marvel Studios has not officially confirmed Starkey's involvement, meaning the casting should still be treated as a rumor.
Drew Starkey Reportedly Linked to Gambit
The latest casting speculation emerged in November 2026, when entertainment insiders began mentioning Drew Starkey as a possible choice for Gambit.
According to reports attributed to entertainment scooper Cartier Films, Starkey was a name being discussed for the role. Another insider, James Mack, also reportedly supported the possibility that the actor could be involved in Marvel's plans.
These reports have attracted attention because they suggest Marvel could be considering a younger interpretation of the popular mutant.
Nevertheless, there has been no official announcement from Marvel Studios or confirmation from Starkey himself.
Why Drew Starkey Could Be a Good Choice for Gambit
Drew Starkey has become increasingly recognizable thanks to his performance as Rafe Cameron in Netflix's hit series Outer Banks.
His portrayal of the unpredictable and emotionally complicated character demonstrated his ability to handle dramatic storylines, intense scenes and complicated personalities.
Those qualities could translate well into the character of Gambit.
Remy LeBeau is known for his confidence, charm, humor and mysterious background. He is also a skilled thief with a complicated history, making him one of the more interesting personalities in the X-Men universe.
Starkey's acting style could offer an interesting interpretation of the character if Marvel eventually selects him.
Drew Starkey Previously Linked to Another X-Men Character
Interestingly, Gambit is not the first Marvel character connected to Starkey through casting speculation.
The actor was previously discussed as a possible candidate for Cyclops in Marvel's upcoming X-Men reboot.
However, Kit Connor was subsequently announced for the role.
Starkey has also publicly expressed interest in joining a major superhero franchise. In an interview with GQ published in August 2026, he discussed the possibility of working with Marvel or DC and indicated that he was open to such opportunities.
Although this does not confirm his involvement in the X-Men franchise, it makes the latest casting speculation particularly interesting.
What About Channing Tatum's Gambit?
One of the biggest questions surrounding the rumor concerns Channing Tatum.
Tatum finally brought Gambit to the big screen in 2024's Deadpool & Wolverine, following years of attempts to develop a standalone movie based on the character.
His appearance was one of the film's memorable surprises, introducing audiences to his interpretation of Remy LeBeau.
Recent reports have suggested that Tatum could continue playing Gambit in the wider Marvel universe, while a younger actor might eventually portray a different version of the character in the new X-Men franchise.
If Starkey eventually gets the role, Marvel could potentially introduce a new interpretation without necessarily abandoning Tatum's version.
However, the studio has not officially explained its long-term plans for Gambit.
Gambit and Rogue Could Become a Major MCU Romance
One of the most exciting possibilities surrounding a new Gambit casting is the character's relationship with Rogue.
In Marvel comics, Remy LeBeau and Rogue share one of the franchise's most recognizable romantic relationships.
Their romance is complicated by Rogue's mutant ability to absorb memories, powers and life energy through physical contact.
Gambit, meanwhile, brings his own emotional baggage, criminal history and secrets into the relationship.
Their chemistry has made them fan favorites for decades.
If Marvel introduces a younger Gambit alongside Rogue in the upcoming X-Men reboot, the studio could have an opportunity to explore their relationship across multiple films.
Who Is Drew Starkey? A Look at His Acting Career
Drew Starkey is an American actor best known for playing Rafe Cameron in Netflix's Outer Banks.
His career includes appearances in several film and television projects, including:
- Outer Banks (2019–2026) – Rafe Cameron
- Hellraiser (2022) – Trevor
- The Other Zoey (2023) – Zach
- Queer (2024) – Eugene Allerton
- Lucky (2026) – Cary
- Onslaught (2026) – Government agent
His performance in Outer Banks helped establish him as a recognizable young actor, while his work in Queer demonstrated a different side of his acting abilities.
A role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe would represent another major step in his career.
When Could Gambit Appear in Marvel's X-Men Reboot?
Marvel Studios is developing a new X-Men movie directed by Jake Schreier.
The project is expected to introduce a new generation of mutant characters into the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Several actors have been associated with the developing project, including Kit Connor, Sadie Sink and other performers reportedly connected to the new X-Men lineup.
The film has been reported for a May 5, 2028 theatrical release.
However, Gambit's involvement and Drew Starkey's casting have not been officially confirmed.
Fans will likely have to wait for further announcements before knowing which actors will ultimately join the new X-Men team.
Is Drew Starkey Officially the New Gambit?
As of November 5, 2026, Drew Starkey has not been officially announced as Gambit by Marvel Studios.
The reports have generated excitement, but there is still a difference between an industry rumor and an official casting announcement.
For now, Starkey remains a rumored candidate rather than the confirmed next Gambit.
Final Thoughts
Drew Starkey as Gambit could be an exciting possibility for the future of Marvel's X-Men franchise.
His charisma, experience portraying complicated characters and interest in superhero projects make him an intriguing potential choice for Remy LeBeau.
A younger Gambit could also give Marvel an opportunity to explore the character's history, powers and iconic relationship with Rogue in greater detail.
Whether Starkey eventually takes the role remains to be seen, but the casting rumor has already given Marvel fans another reason to look forward to the future of the X-Men.
What do you think? Would Drew Starkey make a good Gambit, or should Marvel bring back Channing Tatum?
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