Hugh Jackman's role as Wolverine in the first X-Men film back in 2000 propelled him into movie stardom. It has also become the most iconic role in his career and he has also since then played the character multiple times including in the upcoming MCU film Deadpool 3.
Unfortunately, the legacy of the earlier X-Men films has been questioned since stories from the set have surfaced where there are claims that the filming was "traumatic" and there were a lot of behind-the-scenes feuds. Its director Bryan Singer has also been accused of sexual misconduct by multiple men (which he has denied).
In a recent interview with The Guardian, Jackman was asked about whether his views on the earlier X-Men films have changed ever since the behind-the-scenes stories and allegations regarding Singer surfaced. The actor struggled with this answer as he admitted that it's a "complicated question."
"You know, that’s a really, really complicated question. There’s a lot of things at stake there. X-Men was the turning point, I believe, in terms of comic-book movies and I think there’s a lot to be proud of. And there’s certainly questions to be asked and I think they should be asked," he said.
"But I guess I don’t know how to elegantly answer that. I think it’s complex and ultimately I look back with pride at what we’ve achieved and what momentum that started."
The Wolverine actor was also asked about whether he also experienced the alleged claims regarding the "traumatic" filming of X-Men which was detailed in a report from The Hollywood Reporter back in 2020.
"This was my first movie in America, you gotta understand; it was all so new to me. I think it’s fair to say that...," he said before pausing. "There are some stories, you know... I think there are some ways of being on set that would not happen now. And I think that things have changed for the better."
He also added, "There’s way less tolerance for disrespectful, marginalising, bullying, any oppressive behaviour. There’s zero tolerance for it now and people will speak out, and I think that’s great."
Jackman was very diplomatic in his response regarding the questions on Singer's legacy in the X-Men films and the stories from its production. One thing's for sure is that he is proud of the effects that film had in the comic book genre and his career. At the same time, he also noted that he is glad to see that the working environment from that film is no longer tolerable today.
Also Read: Deadpool 3: Hugh Jackman Reveals Beating Up Ryan Reynolds Motivated Him To Return As Wolverine
The actor is set to make his next appearance as Wolverine in Deadpool 3 where he will be teaming up with Ryan Reynolds. Production is set to begin this year. The film is currently set for release in theaters on November 8, 2024.
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