DECEMBER 29, 2000
Rumors that pro-wrestler The Rock (Duane Johnson) had signed for the role of the Beast in the X-Men sequel spread like wildfire across the internet yesterday. And just as quickly, this bit of casting nonsense was struck down.
Corona Coming Attractions correctly points out that at this stage in the movie's development it's very unlikely that someone like The Rock would be cast. Director Bryan Singer (who allegedly started the rumor at a recent comic convention) is not signed for the sequel yet. Nor is there a script for the film. It's uncertain whether or not the Beast will even be in the movie, so it's unlikely they'd be casting the part.
The most positive debunking of the rumor comes from Ain't It Cool News who spoke to Singer himself. Singer told that website that the story that he and Lee made the announcement at a comic convention is "complete BS."