Ryan Coogler spills: Is Thunderbolts director Jake Schreier really helming Marvel’s X-Men reboot?

Speculation about Marvel’s X-Men reboot has centered on Ryan Coogler’s comments and Jake Schreier’s rumored involvement, fueling discussions among fans and industry insiders. As anticipation grows, “Ryan Coogler on X-Men reboot” remains a key focus, with conflicting statements raising questions about the direction and leadership of the new film.

Conflicting Reports Surround Jake Schreier and the X-Men Project

Rumors have circulated that Jake Schreier, known for directing Thunderbolts*, was Marvel’s leading candidate to direct a fresh take on the X-Men franchise. However, Schreier publicly denied any confirmation of his role, clarifying his current position to an audience at the Mediterrane Film Festival in Malta. Schreier addressed the rumors directly, stating,

“Even if I were confirmed on that movie, I don’t think I would be allowed to answer that question,”

—Jake Schreier, Director

He further explained his filmmaking approach, remarking,

“I guess what I would say is that it always starts from character and working with great writers and collaborators, and certainly thinking about how to do something different with any project that you take on. That’s as much as I can say.”

—Jake Schreier, Director

Schreier’s work on Thunderbolts* earned Marvel’s approval, notably for its focus on developing characters and its practical filmmaking style. Despite an underwhelming box office performance, the film’s creative impact prompted Disney chief Bob Iger to highlight it as an example of Marvel Studios’ renewed commitment to quality-driven projects. In Iger’s own words,

“We’ve also learned over time that quantity does not necessarily beget quality… We lost a little focus by making too much,”

—Bob Iger, Disney CEO

Industry Voices and More Hints Fuel Debate

The situation took an unexpected turn when Ryan Coogler, celebrated for directing Black Panther, apparently informed Metro Entertainment that, “Jake [Schreier] is directing that,” referring to the X-Men reboot. Coogler’s history of candid remarks has previously led to confirmations from Marvel about his own projects, adding credibility to his claim.

Ryan Coogler
Image of: Ryan Coogler

Gizmodo has reported that Marvel may have given official confirmation regarding Schreier’s involvement, intensifying the speculation. The mixed messages raise the possibility that Schreier may not be free to comment until Marvel makes a formal announcement, leaving fans and industry figures in a state of uncertainty.

The X-Men’s Place in Marvel’s Upcoming Saga

The debate over who will direct the X-Men reboot unfolds as Marvel Studios prepares for its next major releases. Kevin Feige, the Marvel Studios head, reportedly has ambitious plans for integrating the X-Men into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), with a multi-year vision that could reshape the franchise. Ryan Reynolds, connected through his role as Deadpool, is also reportedly interested in uniting the X-Men with Deadpool in future projects, signaling broad interest in the X-Men’s MCU journey.

The current phase of Marvel storytelling will progress with The Fantastic Four: First Steps, which is set to reach theaters on July 25. This upcoming film is expected to act as a catalyst for major crossover events, including Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars, both of which will build toward the conclusion of the Multiverse Saga.

As Marvel prepares for these cinematic milestones, the resolution of the X-Men director rumors will be closely watched. With insiders like Ryan Coogler and outlets such as Gizmodo fueling the conversation, the official word on the X-Men reboot’s leadership remains one of the MCU’s most pressing mysteries.

The anticipation surrounding the X-Men reboot, the focus on character-driven storytelling, and the coordinated efforts of influential figures like Kevin Feige and Jake Schreier all suggest that Marvel is entering a fresh era. As more details emerge, the involvement of key creators and the franchise’s direction will continue to be key topics for both fans and industry observers.