After a long period of stasis, "Gambit" is finally moving forward. Not only does it have a director and a working title, the "X-Men" spinoff starring Channing Tatum as the titular hero might now have a central villain as well.
According to Omega Underground, Tatum's Ragin' Cajun will go against Candra The Benefactress — aka Red Death — in the movie. For those who do not know her, Candra is integral to Remy Lebeau and his origin. She is a powerful telekinetic mutant, who is in charge of the mutant New Orleans gangs, Thieves Guild and the Assassin's Guild.
In the comics, she provides the Guilds with their powers via telepathy in exchange for protection from her brethren called The Externals. However, Gambit ends up breaking the deal, setting the vixen up to become one of his biggest enemies.
There is no confirmation on Candra's inclusion so far, as well as the actress who would play the role. However, the publication recalled that a version of her character back in the 90's "X-Men" animated series was a woman of color. Thus, Fox will likely cast an actress of color to take on the villainess' role.
Previous rumors suggested that Mister Sinister would be the upcoming film's lead villain. Per CBR, the plot will reportedly see Gambit being hired by the antagonist aka Nathan Essex to steal a mysterious trunk that was stolen by the Boudreaux clan.
Daniel Craig was already being eyed to play the character, although this has not been confirmed yet. Apart from the "Spectre" actor, Léa Seydoux is also expected to appear in the film as the female lead, Bella Donna Boudreaux.
"Gambit" is reportedly nearing a deal with "Pirates of the Caribbean" director Gore Verbinski. The "X-Men" spinoff, under the working title "Chess," will likely film in the titular character's hometown of New Orleans for a Feb. 14, 2019 release.
