X-Men: 10 Actors Who Could Play The MCU’s Magneto

4. Bryan Cranston

Magneto Viggo Mortensen
FilmDistrict

Let's assume that Marvel does give in to the wishes of Giancarlo Esposito and grants him the role of Professor X. In that case, it would be a crime not to at least consider his former Breaking Bad nemesis Walter White (Bryan Cranston) for his on-screen rival here too. Heisenberg vs Gus in the MCU? Who wouldn't want to see that?

All jokes aside, Cranston is still a pitch-perfect choice for the role of Erik Lehnsherr. He's one of the most respected actors in the industry, having won multiple Emmys for his portrayal of Breaking Bad's twisted anti-hero. He's also done great things on the big screen, such as in Argo, Trumbo, Godzilla (for all of twenty minutes) and more. Thanks to this reputation, he would be welcomed with open arms.

Regarding his acting, Cranston is phenomenal at playing nuanced bad guys. He also has a remarkable ability to command a room with his powerful voice and spirited delivery. Thus, he could fill both quotas needed for Magneto, as both a complex person and a terrifyingly convincing military leader.

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