Casting for "X-Men" didn't require much effort, Gandalf as Magneto, Patrick Stewart as Professor X, these were near-certainties, weren't they? They had delivered remarkable performances in the previous life, so why not let them continue? Besides, McLaren had promised Adrian while filming "The Lord of the Rings" – well, Adrian believed he had promised, but facing an invitation from the Miracle Director, McLaren probably wouldn't refuse – so, it was just a matter of getting Patrick Stewart on board.
As for the lead role of Wolverine, without a doubt, it was still Hugh Jackman's. Otherwise, why would Adrian have people sign him and give him a chance? With the mixed reviews of "Swordfish" and the recently released Valentine's Day hit "Love Across Time," starring alongside Drew Barrymore and receiving much acclaim, Jackman was no longer a newcomer in Hollywood.
