MCU X-Men actor Christopher Abbott describes D23 casting reveal as "nightmare" due to lack of recognition

Christopher Abbott has described his casting reveal at Marvel's D23 panel as an awkward experience, citing the audience's apparent unfamiliarity with him as the source of the discomfort.

"I think I started walking out pretty enthusiastically, and then I kind of felt like a lot of people there didn't know who I was, so then my energy shifted within the split second," Abbott told The Cut. "I was a little bit more humble about it."

Abbott is set to play a younger version of Professor Charles Xavier in the MCU's forthcoming X-Men movie, a significant departure from Sir Patrick Stewart's portrayal of the character beginning in 2000. Abbott reflected on the moment with self-aware humor, noting the applause felt subdued compared to his initial enthusiasm.

"I almost did a fist pump when I walked out, and then I felt like the applause was muted," he continued. "So I was like, 'I'm just going to walk out and nod.' It feels almost like a video game, or a dream. Not like a good dream. It's a bit of both – a bit of a dream and a nightmare."

Abbott is perhaps best known for his role as Charlie on HBO's Girls. His recent film work includes roles in the 2025 Wolfman remake alongside Julia Garner, the Oscar-winning Poor Things, and Kraven the Hunter.

The X-Men cast announcement includes Maya Boyd as Storm, Asa Germann as Angel, Adam Driver as Mister Sinister, and Samara Weaving as Emma Frost. Sadie Sink was announced as Jean Grey for Spider-Man: Brand New Day. The X-Men film is scheduled for May 5, 2028.