X-Men Star Patrick Stewart to Appear in Next Wolverine Movie

X-Men star Patrick Stewart will reprise his role as Professor X in the next Wolverine film.

Although Stewart had previously discussed the possibility of returning to the X-Men franchise, as Collider reports, this is the first time that the actor has confirmed the news. And it looks like his role will be much more than just a cameo.

"There is a project in development," Stewart said. "I understand that Professor Xavier will be making more than an appearance, however, and that intrigues me."

The third standalone Wolverine movie will be directed by James Mangold, who previously helmed 2013's The Wolverine, which went on to make more than $400 million worldwide. At San Diego Comic-Con in July, star Hugh Jackman hinted strongly that the film would draw from the Old Man Logan line of comic books, a futuristic storyline which sees Wolverine as the world's last remaining mutant.

Stewart has now backed up this suggestion, saying: "I'm really looking forward to Hugh Jackman getting old. You know, damn him. He looks so great! So I'm hoping to see him covered in prosthetics, you know? He'll make me look better if that's the case."

The as-yet-untitled third Wolverine film is due for release in March 2017. Meanwhile the latest X-Men film, X-Men: Apocalypse, is currently filming, with Bryan Singer once again in the director's chair. It will be released on May 27, 2016.