Nicholas Hoult has had to cancel his participation in the much-anticipated reunion with former X-Men co-stars James McAvoy and Elliot Page scheduled for New York Comic Con on October 12. Hoult revealed on Instagram on October 8 that he is recovering from recent knee surgery, which prevents him from walking or flying to the event. This development dashed fans’ hopes of seeing the trio together to discuss their experiences filming the popular Marvel Comics series.
Details on Hoult’s Injury and Impact on Convention Appearance
The 35-year-old actor explained his absence in a message posted on the convention’s official Instagram account:
“I’m so sorry to tell you that I won’t be able to join you this time,”
Hoult wrote.
“Unfortunately, I had knee surgery a couple of weeks ago and I can’t walk or fly yet, so I’m not going to be able to make it.”
He added,
“I was really looking forward to it, so I’m sorry. I hope you have a wonderful weekend and, hopefully, I’ll be joining you in the near future and get to see you all soon.”
New York Comic Con responded kindly, wishing Hoult a swift recovery and informing attendees that refunds would be provided for those who had purchased photo opportunities or autographs specifically to meet him.
“Rest up Nicholas, we hope to see you next time. If you bought a Photo Op or Autograph with Nicholas, [event organizers] Epic will reach out to you directly for a refund,”
the event posted on Instagram.
Background on Nicholas Hoult’s Knee Injury and Filming Challenges
Hoult revealed the severity of his knee injury during a July episode of the Smartless podcast, where he disclosed that he tore his ACL while playing basketball. Although the injury typically requires surgery and an extended recovery, Hoult delayed the operation to complete promotional duties for his role as Lex Luthor in the recent Superman film. At the time, he was attempting rehabilitation to avoid surgery, explaining,
“I can get around right now, yeah. But if I did the surgery I think I couldn’t for a while.”
The timing of the injury proved particularly difficult as Hoult was simultaneously involved in filming How to Rob a Bank, an action-heavy heist movie starring alongside Pete Davidson, Zoë Kravitz, and Anna Sawai. Scheduled for release on September 4, 2026, Hoult admitted he was trying to figure out ways to finish shooting despite his physical limitations.
“That’s why I’m rehabbing at the moment. We’ll see how strong I get,”
he told co-host Jason Bateman during the podcast.
Recent Career Highlights and Upcoming Projects
Hoult’s recent months have been marked by an intense promotional schedule for his debut as Lex Luthor in DC’s Superman. He surprised fans during the press tour by sporting bleached platinum blond hair, a significant change from his previous bald look as the villain in director James Gunn’s film. The press appearances took place in major cities including New York City and London.
Looking ahead, Warner Bros quickly approved a Superman sequel titled Man of Tomorrow, set for release on July 9, 2027. James Gunn announced the project on Instagram, sharing a comic image featuring both Lex Luthor and Superman, teasing the return of Hoult and co-star David Corenswet. This sequel is part of the larger reboot of the DC cinematic universe overseen by Gunn and co-chair Peter Safran, which includes future films focusing on Supergirl, The Authority, Wonder Woman, and Batman and Robin.
The Broader Impact of Hoult’s Injury on Fan Events and Film Schedules
Hoult’s injury has temporarily affected fan interactions and event plans, as his absence disappointed attendees anticipating the X-Men reunion panel. Additionally, the injury creates uncertainty for the completion of his upcoming film work. The actor’s situation highlights the physical risks performers may face, especially when balancing demanding roles, press commitments, and personal health.
While Hoult is currently recovering from knee surgery, the X-Men reunion with James McAvoy and Elliot Page could still take place on a later date. Fans and organizers alike hope to see him return to full health shortly, allowing him to rejoin his fellow actors and resume his intensive filming schedule soon.
