Sources tell Deadline that Ben Wang is currently circling the role of Iceman in Marvel-studios/">Marvel Studios' new X-Men film. This development comes just before the release of The Hunger Games: Sunrise On The Reaping, in which Wang plays District 12 tribute Wyatt Callow. Representatives for Marvel could not be reached for comment regarding the potential casting.
Although the deal is not yet confirmed, reports indicate that other actors who tested for the part include Gabriel LaBelle, Jackson Kelly, and Rhenzy Feliz. The character of Iceman, also known as Bobby Drake, is a founding member of the X-Men created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. He first appeared in The X-Men #1 in September 1963 and is recognized for his mutant power of cryokinesis, which allows him to generate and control ice and cold. In the X-Men films released during the 2000s, the character was portrayed by Shawn Ashmore.
If the agreement is finalized, Wang will join an ensemble cast that includes Christopher Abbott as Professor X, Adam Driver as Mr. Sinister, Kit Connor as Cyclops, Samara Weaving as Emma Frost, Inde Navarrette as Rogue, Maya Boyd as Storm, Asa Germann as Angel, and Sadie Sink as Jean Grey. Much of this cast was announced earlier this year at D23, while Sink's involvement was revealed during the summer box office success of Spider-Man: Brand New Day.
The film is being directed by Jake Schreier from a script written by his Beef collaborator Lee Sung Jin and Joanna Calo. Kevin Feige is producing the project, which is slated for a theatrical release on May 5, 2028.
Wang has seen a significant rise in profile in recent years after booking multiple major studio roles. He is perhaps best known for starring in Karate Kid: Legends, Disney+'s American Born Chinese, and the SXSW comedy Brian from Will Ropp. His recent credits include Lionsgate's Stephen King adaptation The Long Walk directed by Francis Lawrence, as well as the David Wain comedy Gail Daughtry and the Celebrity Sex Pass. He was also seen in the 2024 Mean Girls reboot and Disney+'s Chang Can Dunk.
Upcoming projects for Wang include the sixth and final season of Apple TV's For All Mankind, as well as the independent films Kate Must Die and Admissions. He is represented by Stewart Talent, Artists First, and Schreck Rose Dapello.
Sources: Deadline.