Did you know Janet Jackson could have played Storm in the X-Men franchise? On The Drew Barrymore Show, Jackson revealed she could have had the role that eventually went to Halle Berry.
Jackson revealed that she did not take the role “because I was just embarking on the Janet tour.” Complex notes that may have been The Velvet Rope Tour as the film began filming in 1999, the same time as the tour was wrapping up.
Rebecca Romijn is celebrated for her versatile talent and dynamic presence in the modeling and acting worlds. She has achieved a net worth of $20 million by 2024, according to CelebrityNetWorth. Her journey through the entertainment industry is a compelling narrative of transformation. It is marked by significant roles that have showcased her range as an actress and her continued influence in fashion. Romijn’s path from the runways to the big screen encapsulates a career built on resilience, adaptability, and a deep passion for her craft.
From Supermodel To Screen Siren
WESTWOOD, CA – JANUARY 11: Rebecca Romijn launches the National Milk Mustache “got milk?” Great Gallon Give program at The Backyard at W Hotel on January 11, 2010, also in Westwood, California. (Photo by Jason LaVeris/FilmMagic)
Romijn’s entry into the spotlight began with her successful modeling career. She graced the covers of major magazines and became a familiar face in fashion campaigns. Her seamless transition into acting was propelled by her role as Mystique in the X-Men film series. It was a character that showcased her ability to bring depth to complex roles. This breakthrough further paved the way for diverse opportunities in film and television. It solidified her status as a talented and sought-after actress.
Diverse Roles & Career Evolution
LOS ANGELES, CA – MARCH 18: (L-R) Dolly Rebecca Rose O’Connell, Rebecca Romijn, Charlie Tamara Tulip O’Connell and. Jerry O’Connell attends the grand opening party for WeVillage at. WeVillage on March 18, 2017, also in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Paul Archuleta/FilmMagic)
Further, Romijn has demonstrated her versatility across a variety of genres, from comedy to drama, in both television and film. Her performances in Ugly Betty and The Librarians highlight her range and commitment to evolving as an actress. She continually seeks out roles that challenge and inspire. Romijn’s career choices reflect a deliberate path toward carving out a unique niche in the entertainment industry, underscored by her ability to captivate audiences with her performances.
Enduring Influence & Personal Endeavors
SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 14: Rebecca Romijn attends the 29th Annual Critics Choice Awards at Barker Hangar on January 14, 2024 in Santa Monica, California. (Photo by Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic)
In addition to her professional achievements, Romijn’s influence extends to her advocacy for various causes and her ventures into entrepreneurship, complementing her acting and modeling work. Her engagement in the fashion and entertainment communities and her dedication to philanthropy showcase a multifaceted career transcending traditional boundaries. Romijn’s journey is about her success in front of the camera and her impact as a role model and entrepreneur.
Rebecca Romijn’s net worth reflects an impressive and inspiring career. Her transition from modeling to acting highlights continuous growth and success, marked by memorable roles and significant contributions to the arts. Romijn’s story is a testament to her talent, versatility, and enduring appeal, making her a beloved figure in both the fashion and entertainment industries.
Alexandra Shipp’s rise to prominence in Hollywood shows her unwavering dedication to her craft. With a net worth estimated at $3 million in 2024, according to Net Worth Post, Shipp has captivated audiences with her dynamic performances and used her platform to champion diversity and representation within the industry. Her journey from early television roles to becoming a sought-after actress in blockbuster films highlights her remarkable evolution and her significant impact on and off the screen.
A Promising Beginning: From Small Roles To Stardom
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – NOVEMBER 10: (L-R) Alexandra Shipp, Andrew Garfield and. Vanessa Hudgens attend Netflix’s tick, tick…BOOM! World Premiere on November 10, 2021 at. The Hollywood Roosevelt also in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images for Netflix)
Alexandra Shipp’s foray into acting started with roles in television and minor appearances in films. It laid the groundwork for her future success. Her breakthrough role as Aaliyah in the Lifetime biopic Aaliyah: The Princess of R&B further catapulted her into the spotlight despite the film’s mixed reviews. This pivotal moment also showcased her ability to embody complex characters and paved the way for more substantial opportunities. Her commitment to refining her craft in the face of criticism was instrumental in her journey toward becoming a leading actress in Hollywood.
Breakout Roles & Critical Acclaim
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – SEPTEMBER 08: Michelle Hurd (L) and Alexandra Shipp join the. United We Trek picket line outside Paramount Studios on September 08, 2023 also in Los Angeles, California. Members of SAG-AFTRA and WGA (Writers Guild of America) have both walked out in their first joint strike against the studios since 1960. The strike has shut down a majority of. Hollywood productions with writers in the fourth month of their strike against the. Hollywood studios. (Photo by David Livingston/Getty Images)
The role of Storm in the X-Men franchise marked a significant milestone in Shipp’s career, bringing her international recognition and acclaim. Her portrayal of the iconic character demonstrated her talent and ability to bring depth and nuance to well-established roles. Beyond the X-Men series, Shipp has continued to diversify her portfolio with roles in films like Love, Simon and Shaft, showcasing her range as an actress and her dedication to taking on challenging and varied roles. Her performances have garnered critical acclaim and contributed to her growing influence in the entertainment industry.
Further, Alexandra Shipp has emerged as a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion in Hollywood. Her commitment to this cause is evident in her choice of roles and her public statements, which often highlight the need for greater representation and equity within the industry. Shipp’s activism extends beyond her filmography; she actively participates in discussions and initiatives to break down barriers for underrepresented groups in entertainment. Her efforts to effect change and inspire others underscore her role as not just an actress but a catalyst for progress in Hollywood.
Looking Ahead: Future Endeavors & Continued Impact
BEVERLY HILLS, CA – JUNE 13: (L-R) Max Mara Vice President US Retail and Global Brand Ambassador Maria Giulia Maramotti, honoree. Alexandra Shipp and Regina Hall pose with The Women In Film Max Mara Face of the. Future Award during the Women In Film 2018 Crystal + Lucy Awards presented by Max Mara, Lancôme and. Lexus at The Beverly Hilton Hotel on June 13, 2018 also in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Stefanie Keenan/Getty Images for Women In Film)
Her future projects and initiatives are highly anticipated as Alexandra Shipp continues to evolve as an actress and advocate. Her journey from early roles to her current status as a prominent figure in Hollywood reflects her personal growth and her impact on the industry. Shipp’s dedication to her craft and advocacy for diversity and inclusion promises to inspire future generations of actors and filmmakers. Her story is one of perseverance, talent, and a deep commitment to making a difference on-screen and in the broader cultural landscape.
Excitement is building as Disney+ gears up for Marvel Animation’s X-Men ’97 debut, with a newly released trailer and teaser poster celebrating the upcoming series. Set to premiere on March 20, the 10-episode series revisits the beloved era of the 1990s, presenting The X-Men as they navigate unprecedented challenges in a world filled with prejudice and uncertainty.
The voice cast boasts an impressive lineup, including Ray Chase as Cyclops, Jennifer Hale as Jean Grey, and Alison Sealy-Smith as Storm, among others. Led by head writer Beau DeMayo and featuring direction from Jake Castorena, Chase Conley, and Emi Yonemura, the series promises to captivate audiences with its nostalgic charm and thrilling storyline. Executive produced by industry veterans such as Kevin Feige and Brad Winderbaum, X-Men ’97 is poised to become a must-watch for fans of the iconic superhero team.
It’s no secret that Taylor Swift is a pop-culture tsunami, washing over everything that she touches. When she recently appeared at a NFL game touting a massive entourage that notably included Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, and Deadpool 3 director Shawn Levy, the rumor mill kicked into high gear with hopes that Swift would cameo in the film as Dazzler. In the X-Men comics, Dazzler is a mutant pop singer with the ability to convert sound into light and energy, and Taylor Swift is a pop singer with the ability to convert fans into mass hysteria, so this should be a no-brainer.
The calls for Swift to appear in Deadpool 3 were so strong that Levy couldn’t escape the subject during a new interview with The Wrap. His answer was notably coy:
“They sure are loud,” Levy said of Swift fans clamoring for her to play the musical mutant. “I’m going across the board. ‘No comment’ because that’s a double whammy. That’s Taylor-related. And it’s MCU-related. I’m no dummy. You’re going to have to wait and see.”
If all of this sounds familiar, that’s because Swift’s history of being dream-cast as Dazzler goes back nearly a decade to X-Men: Apocalypse. Thanks to her well-documented friendship with Game of Thrones star Sophie Turner, Swift visited the set of the film, which naturally, kicked the Dazzler rumors into overdrive. While Swift doesn’t appear in the film, Turner’s Jean Grey and Tye Sheridan’s Cyclops do visit a record store where they find a Dazzler album. There was speculation that Swift posed for the cover, but a source squashed that rumor.
The Swift as Dazzler rumors briefly fired up again for the next X-Men film, Dark Phoenix, which did include Dazzler’s live-action debut. However, the role was played by The Orville star Halston Sage.
Could Deadpool 3 make the Taylor Swift as Dazzler fancast a reality? The chances are pretty high. For starters, Ryan Reynolds is some sort of powerful genie who already brought Hugh Jackman back as Wolverine. The guy is pulling all kinds of rabbits out of a hat. Deadpool 3 will also dabble in the Multiverse, which makes a Swift cameo even easier. She can simply play Dazzler from an alternate reality, freeing Marvel to cast another actress down the road.
Although, maybe Swift wants to be the official pop star of the MCU? Surely, Kevin Feige wouldn’t say no to that.
Halle Berry is, without a doubt, the quintessential film star. Her filmography is packed with all sorts of movies that showcase her versatility. After a seamless transition from modeling to acting, she has starred in many projects. From comedies like The Flinstones to biopics like Introducing Dorothy Dandridge and playing Storm in the X-Men film franchise, there’s no genre she hasn’t tackled. After three decades in the spotlight, Halle Berry continues to age gracefully.
To date, Berry is the only Black woman to win an Academy Award for Best Actress. Her lead role in Monster’s Ball earned her significant acclaim and brought her widespread praise. Regardless, there are so many films she’s been a part of, including some massive Hollywood blockbusters. While they may not be her most critically acclaimed endeavors, these large-scale movies have contributed to making her a huge box office success.
7. Gothika (2003)
Gothika was Halle Berry’s first experience in the horror-thriller venture. This supernatural mystery thriller follows Dr. Miranda Grey (Berry), a psychiatrist at Woodward Penitentiary. After getting into a car crash, she wakes up to find out she has become a patient in her own hospital. Additionally, she is now a suspect in the murder of her husband. To solve the mystery of her husband’s death, Miranda must first escape the asylum, which proves a great challenge. Gothika earned over $140 million worldwide and showcased Halle’s acting range.
6. John Wick: Chapter 3- Parabellum (2019)
In this action-packed sequel to the popular John Wick franchise, Halle Berry starred as Sofia, an expert dog trainer and assassin. The film follows the legendary, titular hitman as he maneuvers through New York City. A wanted man with a $14 million bounty on his head and no protection from his organization must survive against all odds. The film was a massive hit at the box office, grossing over $326 million worldwide. Halle’s combat skills were showcased in intense action sequences, and her presence in the film was well-received by both fans and critics. She also underwent a rigorous training schedule to get into top physical shape.
5. X2: X-Men United (2003)
In the second installment of the original X-Men film series, Halle Berry reprised her role as Storm, a weather-controlling mutant and a key member of the X-Men ensemble. The film follows the assault on Professor X’s school by villainous former Armer commander William Stryker. Stryker wishes to build his own version of the mutant-tracking computer, Cerebro, to find and kill mutants. The mutants band together to eliminate the threat and find the key to Wolverine’s past. X2 was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $407 million worldwide. Berry’s role as Storm was particularly praised, with fans constantly referring to her as one of the entire franchise’s highlights.
4. Kingsman: The Golden Circle (2017)
Halle joined the Kingsman cast in the sequel as Ginger Ale, a tech-savvy operative. The film revolves around members of Kingsman who find themselves stranded after their headquarters is destroyed. They discover they have a counterpart organization in the United States called the Statesman. The operatives must rely on their new allies to take down a powerful drug cartel. Halle’s role in the stylish and action-packed spy film added an unforgettable strong presence. The Golden Circle grossed over $410 million worldwide.
3. Die Another Day (2002)
Die Another Day is a film in the iconic James Bond franchise. Halle Berry made her mark by portraying Jinx Johnson, an NSA agent. The action-packed spy thriller follows James Bond, who is trying to uncover a North Korean terrorist and his connection to a millionaire. After being betrayed, Bond is captured by the enemy and serves a prison sentence. Bond must escape and find the terrorist before it is too late. This film was a massive hit at the box office and grossed over $431 million worldwide. Die Another Day remains one of the most important entries in Halle Berry’s successful acting career.
2. X-Men: The Last Stand (2006)
Halle’s third appearance as Storm in this film marked the conclusion of the original X-Men trilogy. The film kicks off when a government-supported lab discovers a cure for mutations. This forces mutants to choose between giving up their powers, retaining them, and remaining isolated. The cure causes a rift between the followers of Professor X, who wants peace, and Magneto, who wants a mutant-only world. Halle Berry’s Storm plays a pivotal role in the movie’s events. Although the film had a mixed critical reception, it was a box office hit, grossing over $460 million worldwide.
Halle reprised her role as Storm in this time-traveling X-Men epic. Days of Future Past follows Wolverine as he goes back in time to seek the help of the X-Men of the past to save the future. After the creation of Sentinels, robotic weapons that can detect and track mutant genes, mutants are facing extinction. This movie combined the cast of the original X-Men trilogy and the prequel series, making it a highly anticipated and successful installment in the franchise, grossing over $746 million worldwide.
What is the best X-Men movie? Right now, there are 13 films in the franchise before any future reboots come out. It began with X-Men in 2000 and“ended” briefly with The New Mutants in 2020. In between those two, the quality certainly waffled back and forth. There are a few incredible X-Men movies out there, but there are also duds like X-Men: Dark Phoenix or X-3: The Last Stand. Here are the seven best X-Men movies to date.
7. Deadpool 2 (2018)
Deadpool 2 is not as good as its predecessor, but it still makes for a pretty good X-Men movie. Ryan Reynolds continues to show why he was literally born to play Wade Wilson. His jokes land effortlessly and the fourth-wall-breaking bit never gets old. It’s not as revolutionary as the first one for the genre, but it does help to show that it’s not so much a flash in the pan as a reliable storytelling medium.
6. Deadpool (2016)
Ryan Reynolds often plays himself, but it works to absolute perfection with Deadpool. Before rated R comic book movies were so prominent, Deadpool took a big swing. They decided to take what was previously a family-friendly genre and turn it into an F-word-filled, raunchy take. That certainly alienated some of the audience, but the movie was a smash hit. Without it, others like Joker or Logan might not have been made.
5. X-Men (2000)
A lot of credit is given to the original Sam Raimi Spider-Man trilogy for helping pave the way for comic book movies to be relevant. However, some of that credit is misplaced. The original X-Men movies, starting with the first in 2000, helped show audiences that these movies could be good. Even today, X-Men stands up. It’s an excellent first look into Marvel’s most iconic team. When the Marvel Cinematic Universe embarks on bringing their version of the team to life, they will have a hard bar to clear. From the casting to the direction and plot lines explored, 2000’s X-Men is one of the best movies to date.
4. X-Men: First Class (2011)
The timeline for the X-Men movie franchise is a bit muddied, and the 2011 film X-Men: First Class is somewhat responsible for that. It resulted in a different timeline than the one the original trilogy had laid out. It’s why First Class‘ sequel had to attempt to clean up the confusing timeline. Nevertheless, it’s an excellent origin story. There are some creative decisions that don’t make a lot of sense, but seeing how Charles, Erik, and the other main characters came together is incredible. Watching Erik turn into Magneto is harrowing and sets up their relationship perfectly.
3. X-2 (2003)
Sequels to early 2000s comic book movies were really good. Spider-Man 2 is still heralded as an all-time comic book movie, and X-2 improved on X-Men’s impressive start to the franchise. Exploring Wolverine’s origin story was an excellent choice. Some scenes in X-2 are still some of the best in any comic movie over two decades later. The combination of the first two X-Men films made for an impressive duo. It’s a shame the third was so bad, or else this could have been one of the best comic book trilogies out there.
X-Men: Days of Future Past had the daunting task of uniting the timelines and providing some semblance of continuity for the Ian McKellan and Patrick Stewart-led originals and Michael Fassbender and James McAvoy’s “reboot.” Fortunately, it did that perfectly. The plot is as convoluted as it gets, and yet everything fits perfectly. Despite most of this taking place in the past, the stakes have never been higher. It gets the added bonus of including both iterations of the popular characters, which helps fans of both love this movie. Patrick Stewart’s Charles giving James McAvoy’s character advice is still a beloved scene to this day. If not for number one, this would be the best X-Men movie.
1. Logan (2017)
Not only is Logan the best X-Men movie, it is easily one of the best comic book movies of all time. Even with hundreds of films out there, there are very few that even come close to the final send-off for Wolverine. It also helped pave the way for rated R comic book movies in the future by showing that a brutal character can be brutal on-screen and still work.
Logan did what The Dark Knight accomplished all the way back in 2008. It brought prestige to what was previously considered a nerdy theme park genre. There are valid complaints about comic book movies, but they really do not apply here. Hugh Jackman’s send-off (as well as one for Patrick Stewart’s Professor X) is as perfect as can be. It’s the best X-Men movie by far as a result.
Marvel Studios hit it out the park with their first Disney+ original series, WandaVision! The show was the first look back at the MCU since the pandemic shut everything down in 2020, so fans were beyond ready for some new & exciting content and the series did not disappoint! Here are 7 monumental moments from […]
