‘Gambit’ Movie Cast Update: Channing Tatum Bailing Out? Top 3 Actors Who May Replace Him [Rumors]

After 20th Century Fox has announced last month that it will be doing an X-Men spin-off movie for "Gambit," which will be directed by "Rise of the Planet of the Apes" director Rupert Wyatt, many fans are anticipating Channing Tatum’s portrayal of the card master mutant. However, it looks like fans will just have to wait another lifetime as Tatum has been reported to have dropped out of the movie.

The Wrap reports that according to their source, Tatum is planning on exiting the comic book project while the studio are in the process of casting actresses to star with him in the movie. It is yet to be confirmed if Tatum will completely drop off the production as he is also rumored to produce the film, alongside his partner Reid Carolin, Simon Kinberg and Lauren Shuler Donner.

"Gambit" has been reported to be Tatum’s passion project which has led 20th Century Fox to proceed with the production. Although no concrete reason has been given, it looks like one of the major reasons would have to be Tatum’s desire to make his directorial debut. Tatum’s bigger ambitions may be hindering the star’s desire to continue playing the role of the suave mutant.

Hollywood Access writes that if the rumors are true, this will a very surprising move on the side of the actor, as he has been actively campaigning the role for years, including in this year’s Comic-Con in San Diego. Whatever is up with the actor and the studio, fans and moviegoers are hoping that a resolution will be done to resolve the issue.

However, the news about Tatum’s exit will not put comic book and movie fans at a standstill as many speculations and rumors are now circulating about who could replace the actor for the title role. Movie Pilot has come up with a list which included Kit Harrington, Norman Reedus, Matt Bomer, Josh Halloway and Ian Somerhalder to name a few.

USA Today writes "The Walking Dead" actor Norman Reedus may actually be tailor-made for the role of Gambit as he can easily be mistaken for a rougher and tougher mutant. Another fan favorite is Josh Holloway from the hit series "Lost," probably because of his charms and coy, southern gentleman personality, although he may be lacking the star power magnet the film needs.

Cleveland adds that the original Gambit actor, Taylor Kitsch, is still one of the leading replacements because he has already done the part, so 20th Century Fox might just do another Ryan Reynolds route.

"Gambit" is slated to be released on Oct. 7, 2016 in movie theaters worldwide.