Dafne Keen Lied About Being X-23 in ‘Deadpool and Wolverine’—And We're Grateful She Did

Dafne Keen's casting as X-23 in the upcoming Deadpool and Wolverine film has become a hot topic of discussion among Marvel fans. Known for her breakout role in Logan, Keen's recent admission of misleading fans about her involvement in the film has sparked curiosity and excitement. This article will delve into Keen's rise to fame, the implications of her return as X-23, and the overall impact on the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

Dafne Keen's Rise to Fame as X-23

Dafne Keen, born in Madrid to British actor Will Keen and Spanish actress Maria Fernández Ache, first gained recognition for her role as Laura Kinney, also known as X-23, in Logan (2017). At just 11 years old, Keen delivered a powerful performance that captivated audiences and critics alike. Her portrayal of a young mutant clone of Wolverine showcased her exceptional acting skills and established her as a rising star in Hollywood.

In Logan, Keen's character, Laura, is a product of the Transigen project, a secretive initiative that sought to create mutant weapons. The film, set in a dystopian future, follows an aging Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) as he protects Laura from those who wish to exploit her abilities. Keen's performance resonated with viewers, earning her a dedicated fanbase and setting the stage for her future in the MCU.

The Mystery of X-23 in the MCU

Since her debut in Logan, the potential return of X-23 has been a topic of speculation among Marvel fans. The character's unique backstory and connection to Wolverine have made her a compelling figure within the X-Men franchise. Following Disney's acquisition of 20th Century Fox, which included the rights to the X-Men characters, fans eagerly anticipated how X-23 would fit into the MCU.

Keen's return as X-23 in Deadpool and Wolverine marks a significant moment for the character, as it bridges the gap between the Fox X-Men universe and the MCU. The film is set to explore the multiverse, allowing for crossovers and interactions between beloved characters from different timelines and franchises. Keen's involvement adds depth to the narrative, as her character has evolved since her last appearance.

The Lie That Shocked Fans

In a surprising twist, Keen recently revealed that she had misled fans about her role in Deadpool and Wolverine. During promotional interviews for her recent project, The Acolyte, Keen was repeatedly asked about her involvement in the film. Instead of confirming her return, she chose to keep it a secret, drawing inspiration from Andrew Garfield's similar experience while promoting Spider-Man: No Way Home.

Keen's decision to mislead fans was not without its challenges. She described the experience as humorous, stating, "I had a great time keeping it secret." Her ability to maintain the ruse added an element of surprise to the film's marketing, culminating in the thrilling reveal of her character in the final trailer. This unexpected twist has left fans buzzing with excitement and speculation about her role in the film.

Behind the Scenes: Marvel's Casting Secrets

Marvel Studios is known for its strict secrecy regarding casting decisions and plot details. This culture of confidentiality often leads to rampant speculation among fans, as they attempt to piece together information from various sources. Keen's experience reflects this trend, as she navigated the delicate balance between promoting her current project and keeping her involvement in Deadpool and Wolverine under wraps.

The secrecy surrounding casting decisions is a hallmark of Marvel's marketing strategy. By withholding information, the studio creates anticipation and excitement leading up to a film's release. Keen's ability to maintain her secret adds to the mystique of the film, generating buzz and speculation among fans eager to see how her character will fit into the larger narrative.

What This Means for Deadpool and Wolverine

The inclusion of X-23 in Deadpool and Wolverine opens up a wealth of storytelling possibilities. The film reunites Ryan Reynolds' Deadpool with Hugh Jackman's Wolverine, allowing for a unique exploration of their dynamic. With Laura now older and wiser, her character development will play a crucial role in the film's narrative.

In Logan, Wolverine took on a fatherly role for Laura, ultimately sacrificing himself to protect her and other young mutants. In Deadpool and Wolverine, Laura's growth and maturity will be central to the story. Keen has hinted that her character will have a deeper understanding of her relationship with Wolverine, stating, "I believe that Laura, in Logan, had a hard time accepting this father figure and then losing him. We find her now, knowing how much that bond means to her."

This evolution of Laura's character provides an opportunity for emotional depth within the film. As she navigates her identity as X-23 and her connection to Wolverine, audiences can expect a nuanced portrayal that reflects her growth since Logan.

Fan Reactions: Relief and Excitement

The Marvel community has responded enthusiastically to Keen's return as X-23. Many fans expressed relief and excitement upon seeing her character confirmed in the trailer. The anticipation surrounding her role has sparked discussions about what fans hope to see in the film.

Keen's portrayal of X-23 has resonated with audiences, and her return is seen as a significant moment for the character. Fans are eager to witness the reunion between Laura and Wolverine, as well as the potential for new character dynamics with Deadpool. The excitement surrounding her return underscores the lasting impact