Despite the recent report that stated Channing Tatum was exiting the Gambit role, it’s now said Tatum has closed the deal to star as the Ragin’ Cajun.
THR reports the move was actually widely expected, despite the earlier rumor.
It is stated that Tatum and Fox ran into a few issues during negotiations, but it’s said such back-and-forth is a normal part of top-level talent dealmaking.
It’s further said Tatum’s involvement in Gambit wasn’t really in any danger because the actor had already invested so much in wanting to play the character.
Tatum is attached to play Gambit and produce, and also recently appeared at Comic-Con.
Apparently, the main issue involving getting Tatum signed was backend compensation.
The report also mentions that Fox considers Gambit a major character – on par with Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine – and it’s suggested Fox wants Tatum on board as Gambit for the long haul, possibly up to ten years or so.
What remains to be seen is how everything gets figured out in regards to story and connections to the rest of the X-Men universe, but the Gambit movie has an October 7, 2016 release with Ruper Wyatt directing.