X-Men Writer Confirms Famke Janssen’s Return as Jean Grey in Avengers: Doomsday

Despite earlier reports and a statement from the actress herself, X-Men comics writer Chris Claremont has confirmed that Famke Janssen will be returning for Avengers: Doomsday.

Claremont, who penned Uncanny X-Men from 1975 to 1991, shared his thoughts on the new Doomsday trailer, which shows Professor X and Magneto in a friendly moment at what looks like the X-Mansion. The scene quickly shifts to Cyclops, depicted in a comic-accurate costume, kneeling amidst the wreckage of the mansion. In the clip, Claremont mentions that the original cast is making a comeback, prompting one of the hosts to ask, “The original… James Marsden, right?” Claremont clarifies, “No, the original cast… including Famke.”

Janssen is well-known for her role as Jean Grey in X-Men, X-2: X-Men Unlimited, X-Men: The Last Stand, and The Wolverine. However, she wasn’t included in the initial announcement of returning cast members from the original Fox film series for Avengers: Doomsday. The lengthy cast reveal livestream confirmed the return of actors like James Marsden as Cyclops, Rebecca Romijn as Mystique, Kelsey Grammer as Beast, Ian McKellen as Magneto, Patrick Stewart as Charles Xavier, and Alan Cumming as Nightcrawler.

When asked if Marvel had ever approached her to reprise her role as Jean Grey, Janssen stated, “Never. Never ever.” While it’s possible Claremont may have misspoken, Marvel is known for its surprises. Just look at Wesley Snipes’ Blade and Jennifer Garner’s Elektra making appearances in Deadpool and Wolverine. Interestingly, Halle Berry’s Storm was also not mentioned as part of the returning cast, but only time will reveal more.

Avengers: Doomsday is set to hit theaters on December 18.