Channing Tatum could actually direct the Gambit solo film

If the Gambit movie does finally happen, Channing Tatum could end up in the director’s chair.

Fox’s Gambit movie has had a long and difficult road to the big screen, and with Disney’s acquisition of 21st Century Fox almost done, it probably won’t happen. But if the film does become a reality, the film’s leading man could take the helm.

In their recent story on Channing Tatum’s departure from UTA and 360 Management, Deadline reported that Tatum may direct Gambit. The trade says the actor began to consider the move after the project lost its most recent director, Gore Verbinski.

By this point, fans undoubtedly know that the Gambit movie has been in “development hell” for some time now. Back in 2014, Tatum was first announced to be playing the character in X-Men: Apocalypse. Although this never panned out, during that same year, he was then announced to be playing the role in solo film.

The project has had several directors since it was announced. The first was Rupert Wyatt, who eventually left due to scheduling conflicts. Doug Liman was the second director attached to the project, but he too left due to scheduling conflicts. And as mentioned, Gore Verbinski was also set to direct before leaving almost a year ago. So, if Tatum does take the job, he’ll be the fourth director to do so.

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One of the biggest questions regarding this situation is whether or not Tatum should direct, given his limited experience. This is also a major blockbuster in a major franchise that Fox has invested a lot into. Despite this, the move wouldn’t be a serious risk for the studio. The movie would be a blockbuster, but such a film wouldn’t require a massive budget like other X-Men films. On top of this, just having Tatum’s name on the project would attract audiences.

Of course, this is all predicated on whether this project actually comes to fruition, and based on the current circumstances, the odds look slim. But anything is possible, and with a miracle, Tatum may finally get to bring his cajun mutant to the big screen. Gambit is currently scheduled to be released on March 13, 2020.