Marvel Studios is reportedly considering Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson for the role of Apocalypse in its upcoming X-Men reboot. While the studio has not confirmed the news, insider sources claim he is being considered for the part. As Marvel expands its X-Men universe, speculation about casting key mutants continues to gain traction.
Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson rumored for Apocalypse in MCU’s X-Men reboot
According to @MyTimeToShineHello on X (formerly Twitter), “Marvel Studios is interested in casting Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson as Apocalypse in the MCU.” The post has gained significant traction, accumulating over 502.4K views, as of writing. A follow-up post from the same source included concept art, stating, “This is how The Rock could look in the role!”
Apocalypse, also known as En Sabah Nur, debuted in X-Factor #5 (1986) as “one of the most powerful and ancient mutants.” Oscar Isaac played him in X-Men: Apocalypse (2016). At the Disney APAC Content Showcase, Kevin Feige said, “I think you will see that continue in our next few movies with some X-Men players that you might recognize” (via Deadline). He added, “Right after that, the whole story of Secret Wars really leads us into a new age of mutants and of the X-Men.”
Jeff Sneider’s The InSneider reported that Marvel Studios plans to begin filming the X-Men reboot next year, aiming for a 2027 release. Reports also state that the film is expected to be released after Avengers: Secret Wars.
Johnson played Black Adam in the 2022 DCEU film, but after leadership changes at DC, his role ended. The X-Men reboot is not expected to be an origin story, meaning Apocalypse could debut as an established villain.
Reports suggest Johnson’s potential MCU commitments may affect his WWE schedule, including a rumored WrestleMania match with Roman Reigns. WWE’s long-term booking requires extensive promotion, which could conflict with a major Marvel production.
This remains unconfirmed, but Johnson’s possible role as Apocalypse has sparked widespread discussion. Fan art has already imagined how he could look in the MCU.