Warning: spoilers for Deadpool & Wolverine. Deadpool & Wolverine packs a wide array of spectacular cameos, as fans had expected, but there's one in particular that could leave some viewers scratching their heads. Channing Tatum has an extended cameo role in the Marvel Studios blockbuster, playing iconic comic book character Gambit, who recently played a major part in acclaimed animated series X-Men '97 on Disney Plus .
While the former Magic Mike actor's appearance in Deadpool & Wolverine is certainly one of the most memorable celebrity cameos, it could prove a bit confusing to those who aren't brushed up on their Hollywood hijinks. Never fear! We're here to explain the story behind Tatum's long-desired Gambit movie that never saw the light of day. Why is Channing Tatum playing Gambit in Deadpool & Wolverine? Channing Tatum's history with Marvel's Gambit actually dates all the way back to 2006, when he was cast as the character for a cameo appearance in X-Men: The Last Stand that was ultimately scrapped.
The actor remained in contention to play the role in X-Men Origins: Wolverine, but could not commit to the production due to a clash of filming dates with GI Joe: Rise of the Cobra. Therefore, Taylor Kitsch (Battleship) bagged the part of Gambit for his first and – until now – only live-action appearance, signing a multi-picture deal that went unfulfilled after X-Men Origins was panned by fans and critics alike. The film's relative failure brought Tatum back into the conv.