Channing Tatum Failed Thor Audition Before MCU Gambit Role

Channing Tatum revealed that he auditioned to play Thor in the 2011 Marvel film directed by Kenneth Branagh, though he did not want the role and primarily sought the opportunity to work with Branagh. During the audition, Tatum struggled with staying still as Branagh instructed, which led to an unsuccessful tryout. The role of Thor ultimately went to Chris Hemsworth, who has since become a central figure in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Tatum later became attached to a Gambit solo film during Fox's ownership, which was eventually canceled after Disney's acquisition, but he finally made his MCU debut as Gambit in the 2024 film Deadpool & Wolverine. His cameo was well received, leading to Marvel confirming Tatum's return as Gambit in the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday. Tom Hiddleston, who plays Loki, also initially auditioned for Thor before being cast as Thor's brother.