The Next Man: Channing Tatum's Card Punched to Play Gambit in Future 'X-Men' Movies

Long-running whispers in the cinematic "X-Men" universe have now mutated into fact: Channing Tatum will officially be taking on the role of Remy LeBeau, aka Gambit, in future "X-Men" movies.

Lauren Shuler-Donner, longtime producer of the "X-Men" series, confirmed this winning hand for the franchise.

"It is Channing," said Shuler-Donner to Total Film at the U.K. premiere of "X-Men: Days of Future Past."
"Yes. Yes!"He's a rogue, Channing; he's a rascal, just like Remy LeBeau," replied Shuler-Donner when asked what qualities make Tatum an ideal choice for the role. "And he can handle the action, as we know. And he's got a real good heart, I know him personally, I did a movie with him [2006's "She's the Man"]."Tatum himself had expressed interest in the role as far back as last fall.

"I would like to play Gambit, [he's] my favorite," said Tatum to Total Film back in September. "I'm from New Orleans, or around that area, my dad's from New Orleans, and I'd like to do a Cajun accent, 'cause I can do it for real."

Gambit was previously portrayed on the big screen by Taylor Kitsch in "X-Men Origins: Wolverine" (2009), but Tatum feels his background can contribute to a more traditional interpretation of the character from the comics.