Home > News > Channing Tatum's Gambit Movie: A '30s Romantic Comedy Axed Before Filming

Channing Tatum's Gambit Movie: A '30s Romantic Comedy Axed Before Filming

By JulianOct 23,2025

Channing Tatum’s shelved Gambit film was envisioned as a '30s-inspired romantic comedy within a superhero universe, as revealed by Lizzy Caplan.

In a Business Insider interview, the Cloverfield star shared insights about the Gambit project she was slated to co-star in with Tatum, describing it as having “a truly unique concept.”

Tatum’s long struggle to portray the beloved X-Men character seemed doomed until his unexpected Gambit appearance in the MCU blockbuster Deadpool & Wolverine. His earlier efforts to launch a Gambit film were abandoned following the 2019 Disney-Fox merger, leaving Tatum devastated and fearing he’d never play the card-wielding mutant, an experience he called “traumatizing.”

Deadpool & Wolverine: Easter Eggs, Cameos and References

38 Images

Caplan was reportedly cast as the female lead for the Gambit film as early as 2017. Speaking to Business Insider, she confirmed her involvement and noted having discussions with Tatum about the project. "We were close to filming," Caplan said. "I believe there was even a start date set.”

In 2018, producer Simon Kinberg told IGN the Gambit film would carry a “romantic or comedic flair” reflective of the character’s personality.

"Gambit’s a charmer and a rogue," Kinberg explained. "His confidence and charisma naturally suited a romantic comedy tone.”

Caplan recently echoed this, saying, "They aimed for a '30s-style screwball comedy in that universe, which would’ve been a blast," she told Business Insider.

The future of Tatum’s Gambit remains unclear, with Marvel Studios yet to comment, though the X-Men’s MCU debut has been confirmed.

Last August, Deadpool star Ryan Reynolds shared a clearer version of a Deadpool & Wolverine scene on social media, sparking intense speculation among Gambit fans.

Warning! Deadpool & Wolverine spoilers follow.

Previous article:Horror Game 'Coma 2' Unveils Spooky Dimension Next article:Total War: Empire Expands with A New World