Will Rogue Join Avengers: Doomsday? Her Powers and MCU Future
Avengers: Doomsday promises a major X-Men debut in the MCU, but will Rogue appear? Discover what’s known about her possible role, her unique powers, and Anna Paquin’s thoughts on returning.
The next Avengers instalment is set to be a grand affair, with the X-Men finally stepping into the Marvel Cinematic Universe following Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine. Yet, fans are left wondering whether Anna Marie LeBeau—better known as Rogue—will be among the mutants making their entrance. At present, the outlook for her inclusion appears rather bleak.
Who’s In and Who’s Out?
Confirmed appearances for the upcoming film include Professor X, Magneto, Cyclops, Beast, Nightcrawler, Gambit, and Mystique. Notably absent from this list is Rogue, whose name has yet to surface in any official announcements. According to a well-known insider, recognised for previous leaks, Rogue is not expected to join the mutant line-up in this chapter. The same source noted that plans could change with reshoots, but added:
I will say this is everything I’ve heard BEFORE the reshoots they’re planning, so maybe they could possibly be added…I personally doubt they would play any major role if they were to be added…my money is on Secret Wars.
Alongside Rogue, both Storm and Jean Grey are also reportedly missing from the roster for this much-anticipated film.
Rogue’s Abilities in the Comics
Within the pages of Marvel comics, Rogue stands out as one of the more tragic figures among the mutants. Her power to absorb the life force and memories of others through skin contact has forced her into a life of solitude, unable to enjoy even the simplest forms of physical closeness. This struggle with isolation and identity has long resonated with readers.
Her relationship with Gambit eventually offers her a glimpse of the affection she’s been denied, revealing a more vulnerable side to her character. Rogue’s signature ability is absorption—she can, with the briefest touch, drain another’s memories, skills, and even their very essence. This power comes at a steep cost; a single kiss once left her beloved in a coma, and the aftermath revealed secrets that only deepened her sorrow.
Rogue’s powers are not limited to absorption. She once permanently acquired Captain Marvel’s superhuman abilities, granting her enhanced strength, stamina, durability, agility, and the power of flight. She is also adept at acrobatics and swordplay, skills honed under the guidance of her brother, Nightcrawler.
Anna Paquin’s Take on Returning as Rogue
Anna Paquin portrayed Rogue in the X-Men film series, making appearances from the original trilogy through to a cameo in Days of Future Past and a more substantial role in the so-called Rogue Cut. It’s been over ten years since she last donned the mantle, but would she be open to a return?
Surprisingly, Paquin has expressed her willingness to reprise the role, stating in an interview that all it would require is for her to be asked. She also mentioned her disappointment at never having the chance to fly in the films, a key aspect of Rogue’s comic book persona. Paquin remarked,
I never got to fly, come on.
Fans have long shared her frustration at the cinematic portrayal of the character, though recent animated adaptations have offered some redemption.
Should Paquin be invited back for the next Avengers outing, perhaps the creative team will finally allow her to soar as Rogue was always meant to.
Avengers: Doomsday is currently scheduled for release on 18 December 2026.