In a recent interview with The Direct's Russ Milheim, actor Aaron Stanford addressed the possibility of reprising his role as Pyro in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Stanford, who portrayed the pyrokinetic mutant in 2003's X2 and 2006's X-Men: The Last Stand, expressed both fondness for the character and a willingness to consider returning if Marvel Studios were to approach him.
When asked if he would hypothetically return as Pyro if given the opportunity, Stanford replied, 'I'd have to think about it. You know, it's a character that, I've been there and done that. I quite enjoyed it. And I still have many, many fond memories and a lot of lasting friendships from those experiences... I don't know, man. It's an intriguing question. I would have to consider it.'
While Stanford's response was somewhat ambiguous, it does leave the door open for a potential return of Pyro in the MCU. With other actors from Fox's X-Men Universe already reprising their roles in the MCU, such as Patrick Stewart as Professor X and Kelsey Grammer as Beast, it seems plausible that Stanford could also make a comeback.
One project that could potentially feature Stanford's return is Deadpool 3, the highly anticipated film that will bridge the gap between Fox's X-Men Universe and the MCU. The movie is expected to include several cameos from beloved mutant characters, and with Ryan Reynolds' Deadpool already confirmed, it wouldn't be surprising to see Pyro join the roster.
Additionally, there is speculation that Marvel Studios' Avengers: Secret Wars, the final project of Phase 6 and the concluding storyline of the Multiverse Saga, could also feature appearances from characters in the Fox's X-Men Universe. This could be another opportunity for Stanford to reprise his role, although it is uncertain whether his involvement would be a significant one, considering the already expansive cast of the upcoming film.
It is worth noting that while Stanford's return as Pyro in the MCU remains uncertain, Marvel Studios may choose to recast the character for their upcoming X-Men reboot. However, even if John Allerdyce's Pyro is recast, Stanford could still potentially return to bid a final farewell to the character that he portrayed over 18 years ago.
Fans will have to wait and see if Aaron Stanford will indeed reprise his role as Pyro in the MCU. With upcoming projects like Deadpool 3 and Avengers: Secret Wars on the horizon, there may be plenty of opportunities for beloved Fox's X-Men characters to make their mark in the ever-expanding Marvel Cinematic Universe.
