THE MUMMY may have failed to make the kind of money Universal was hoping, but they’re still moving forward with their plans for the DARK UNIVERSE. They already have their massive cast lined-up, including Javier Bardem, Johnny Depp, Tom Cruise and Russell Crowe, and if a new report is to be believed one more Hollywood all-star could join the list soon.
In a report from THR word is that Universal is hoping to reach out to none other than Channing Tatum in hopes he will accept the role of Van Helsing in a solo movie featuring the monster hunter. The news ends there, as no development on the casting has been made. The studio is also still “prepping an offer” to Angelina Jolie to star in BRIDE OF FRANKENSTEIN, due out February 14, 2019.
Tatum has several movies coming this year, including KINGSMAN: THE GOLDEN CIRCLE and LOGAN LUCKY, but after that his acting slate looks pretty clear, and considering GAMBIT is on the back burner he has plenty of time to take part in this new franchise. The role was previously played by Hugh Jackman in 2004’s VAN HELSING, and given his tenure as Wolverine is done, the actor could also take on a new series. Just sayin’.
Tatum has proved himself a versatile actor, and I wouldn’t be opposed to seeing him as the iconic character. He has the standing and leading man presence to take on the hero role, should that be a direction Universal is taking the character, and given all the monsters around you’ll need someone like Helsing to balance it all out. He will wield a rifle in KINGMAN, so naturally, the progression from there is a stake and cross.
KINGSMAN: THE GOLDEN CIRCLE is out September 22.