Ben Wang in Talks to Play Iceman in Marvel Studios' New X-Men Movie

Actor Ben Wang has entered discussions with Marvel Studios to take on the role of Iceman in the upcoming X-Men film. Ahead of his appearance in The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping as District 12 tribute Wyatt Callow, Wang is circling the iconic character also known as Bobby Drake.

Iceman was created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, making his debut in The X-Men #1 in September 1963 as a founding member of the superhero team. The mutant possesses cryokinesis, allowing him to generate and manipulate ice and cold, freeze objects, and transform his physical body into living ice. In the 2000s 20th Century Fox film franchise, the character was famously portrayed by Shawn Ashmore.

Before securing the role, Wang reportedly competed against several other actors who tested for the part. According to industry reports, the shortlist included Gabriel LaBelle, Jackson Kelly, and Rhenzy Feliz.

Should negotiations finalize, Wang will join a growing ensemble cast for the project. Confirmed cast members include Christopher Abbott as Professor X, Adam Driver as Mr. Sinister, Kit Connor as Cyclops, Samara Weaving as Emma Frost, Inde Navarrette as Rogue, Maya Boyd as Storm, Asa Germann as Angel, and Sadie Sink as Jean Grey.

The new feature film is directed by Jake Schreier from a screenplay co-written by his Beef collaborator Lee Sung Jin and Joanna Calo. Kevin Feige is attached to produce the picture, which is currently scheduled for a theatrical release on May 5, 2028.

Wang has built a robust résumé with high-profile studio roles in recent years. His previous credits include Karate Kid: Legends, Disney+ series American Born Chinese, the comedy Brian, and Lionsgate's Stephen King adaptation The Long Walk. He is also slated to appear in the final season of Apple TV's For All Mankind as well as upcoming independent films.