Giancarlo Esposito is perhaps best known for his villainous roles, most ironically Gus Fring inBreaking BadandBetter Call Saul.He also, interestingly enough, plays dictatorAnton Castillo inFar Cry 6. He’s far from a one-trick pony though, taking on a number of roles throughout his career, but his villains are often the highlights. However, a new rumor suggests he could be coming to theMCUas a hero, but he’s perfect for the role nonetheless.
These rumors, although not coming from a reliable source, sayGiancarlo Esposito could be Professor X in the MCU. For clarification, Professor X appears inDoctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, but on Earth-838, not Earth-616, the main universe of the MCU. While some no doubt hope John Krasinki as Mr. Fantastic returns in the main MCU, it makes sense not every character would. Patrick Stewart’s Professor X is no doubt iconic, but just like that world features Captain Carter instead of Captain America, that doesn’t mean Earth-616’s Professor X will be the same.
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Giancarlo’s Masterful Expressions Would Bring Out the Best of Professor X
Therefore, it makes sense that a new actor would lead Earth-616’s Mutants in the MCU. Marvel has already introduced mutants in this world, confirming thatMs. Marvel/Kamala Khan’s powers were related to a mutation, but Professor X needs someone capable of leading the cast. If not Patrick Stewart himself, Giancarlo Esposito is the next best pick—regardless of the rumor’s veracity.
What makes Giancarlo such an impeccable villain is his ability to appear meek and daunting, intense and kind, all within flashes. Giancarlo’s facial expressions are whyGus Fringmade such an endearing villain, as he was capable of passing as a fast food owner/manager but a massive drug lord too. It’s all in how Giancarlo delivers the character through controlled tones and facial expressions.
Control is of the utmost importance to Professor X too, if albeit in a different way. When Professor X uses his powers, there’s the iconic fingers-to-temple expressions, as well as the need for controlled facial expressions when he’s upset, when he’s angry, and when he’s trying to bring his powers under control. He needs a calm, reassuring, but authoritative tone as he speaks about how mutants need to overcome mankind’s prejudice in theMCU.
BecauseProfessor Xis limited to a wheelchair, there’s not a lot of bodily presence in any scene. It comes down to facial expressions, to tone, and to personality—and Gus Fring would not be the villain he is without Esposito’s expert portrayal of these subtle, yet important acting characteristics. What made Gus Fring a great villain could make Professor X stand out in every scene he appears in. Fingers crossed that the rumors are true.
