Marvel Studios’ upcoming film, Avengers: Doomsday, is set to unite heroes from across the Multiverse, yet the absence of Jean Grey from the roster has raised questions among fans. A recent report sheds light on a potential in-universe explanation, suggesting that the character is already dead in the X-Men universe that the Earth-616 Avengers encounter.
According to information from the scooper My Time To Shine Hello on X, Jean Grey’s demise might explain her lack of presence alongside iconic characters such as Professor X, Magneto, Cyclops, Mystique, Gambit, Nightcrawler, and Beast. While the timing of her death remains uncertain, it could have occurred either after the events of X2: X-Men United or during confrontations involving Doctor Doom and his controlled Sentinels, which have been rumored to pose a significant threat to this reality.
The narrative suggesting the X-Men’s near extinction aligns with the portrayal of Professor X and Magneto’s alliance, hinting at a shift in allegiances among the legacy characters. Additionally, this context may clarify why not all familiar faces are making a return in the film.
Real-world comments from actress Famke Janssen, who portrayed Jean Grey in the original Fox X-Men films, further support this narrative. In discussions with Kristian Harloff, Janssen revealed that Marvel Studios did not reach out to her regarding a reprise of her role. She expressed a preference for more significant creative involvement in her projects, indicating that revisiting a minor role with limited input is not appealing at this stage in her career.
In an interview with Entertainment Weekly in October 2025, Janssen noted that questions surrounding Avengers: Doomsday have frequently dominated discourse about her work. With both an in-universe reasoning and Janssen’s comments circulating, it appears that Jean Grey’s absence from the film was indeed a deliberate choice.
As anticipation builds for the release of Avengers: Doomsday on December 18, 2026, audiences await further clarity on how this fractured mutant universe will be integrated into Marvel’s broader Multiverse narrative. Directed by the Russo Brothers, the film promises to deliver a unique experience, even without one of its most notable characters.
As Marvel Studios continues to unveil its plans, fans remain eager for the next X-Men-focused teaser, which may provide additional insight into the future of this beloved franchise.
