The X-Men are finally on their way to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and few characters have fans more excited than Ororo Munroe, better known as Storm, who is one of Marvel’s most iconic heroes and a longtime member of the X-Men. With Marvel Studios keeping casting details under wraps, the internet has taken over with speculation, fan-casts, and a few rumored names. From rising stars to fan-favorite performers, here are five actresses who are popular fan-cast choices to play Storm in the MCU.
1. Kirby Howell-Baptiste
One of the most talked-about names in connection with Storm is Kirby Howell-Baptiste, who appeared in ‘The Sandman’ and won audiences over in ‘The Good Place’. She has even acknowledged the casting rumors herself, which only added more fuel to the fire.
Howell-Baptiste has the range to shift between lighthearted moments and dramatic intensity, which would serve her well in portraying Storm’s balance of compassion and strength. Her ability to command attention on screen without overshadowing others is exactly the kind of quality Marvel tends to look for in such roles.
2. Cynthia Erivo
Cynthia Erivo has built a reputation as one of the most versatile talents in Hollywood today, with performances on stage and screen. After taking on the role of Elphaba in ‘Wicked’, her name surfaced in reports linking her to Storm.
Erivo brings a strong acting presence along with a natural gravity that could elevate the character’s portrayal in the MCU. Storm is a leader by nature, and Erivo’s commanding voice and dignified presence would make her a natural fit for that role. Even though it remains only a rumor, it’s one that fans are taking seriously.
3. DeWanda Wise
DeWanda Wise is another actress whose name has come up in casting discussions for Storm, particularly after her role in ‘Jurassic World Dominion’. She has the physicality needed for action-heavy scenes while also being able to carry emotional weight, as seen in ‘She’s Gotta Have It’.
Wise’s charisma and ability to balance vulnerability with power line up perfectly with Storm’s character arc, which has often explored her duality as both a goddess-like figure and a deeply human leader. Among the rumored contenders, she feels like one of the most realistic picks Marvel could go for to play Storm in the MCU.
4. Jodie Turner-Smith
Though not part of any concrete casting rumors, Jodie Turner-Smith is a name fans consistently champion in conversations about Storm. Her breakout role in ‘Queen & Slim’ showed her emotional depth, while her recent role in ‘The Acolyte’ proved she can thrive in genre-heavy projects.
Turner-Smith has a striking presence that feels tailor-made to play Storm in the MCU, from her physical stature to her ability to project authority with just a look. Even if Marvel hasn’t made moves in her direction yet, she remains one of the most compelling fan-favorite suggestions on the list.
5. Keke Palmer
Keke Palmer has been a household name for years, but her star power skyrocketed after her performance in Jordan Peele’s Nope. Fans have long championed her as their dream casting for Storm, and it’s easy to see why.
Palmer brings a natural confidence and energy that would make Storm stand out, while also having the acting talent to go around the character’s more vulnerable moments. While there’s no evidence Marvel is considering her at this point, she represents the kind of inspired fan-cast that often gains momentum online, and sometimes, Marvel listens to the fans.
