But The Wrap is now reporting that Tatum’s deal for the movie “is in jeopardy of falling apart”, and that the actor plans to quit the project. Channing Tatum and his creative partner Reid Carolin were also producing Gambit, and if they remove themselves from that capacity, the future of the whole film could be thrown into doubt. Whatever it was that led Tatum to this decision comes just as the studio was auditioning for co-stars. Unfortunately he was unable to bring any footage, for the film was scheduled to start shooting later this fall for an October 2016 release.
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Roger Friedman of Showbiz411 says he received a casting call for 20th Century Fox’s “Gambit” spin-off, which he says is filming in secret in New Orleans under the working title “Chess“.
Channing Tatum, who’s signed on to play the Ragin’ Cajun and one-time X-Men member, is allegedly suffering from a bout of cold feet.
The live-action incarnation of Gambit made his debut in X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009) – though his name only appeared in X2: X-Men United (2003) – and was played by Taylor Kitsch. The situation will have to be resolved quickly, as “Gambit” is slated for release on October. 7, 2016.
Tatum reportedly recently began screen-testing with actresses for a potential leading role, including Blue Is the Warmest Color and Spectre star Lea Seydoux. He is known for his film Rise of the Planet of the Apes.
Gambit, who rose to popularity largely as a result of his appearance on the 90s animated series, has been in Fox’s sights for a standalone movie for years.
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Earlier this month, Channing Tatum was present at the 20th Century Fox panel at San Diego Comic-Con to promote his character, and seemed, at the time, super stoked about the whole thing. No matter the decision, Donner and Simon Kinberg will stay on as producers.
