Adam Warlock has long been rumored to make his Marvel Cinematic Universe debut in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, but who should be cast as the character? Director James Gunn has shared his intentions to introduce Adam into the MCU's cosmic-shifted future and, while that came into question after Gunn's firing, with the director back on board, it's expected that Adam will be an integral piece of Vol. 3.

The character of Adam Warlock was first teased in Thor: The Dark World and Guardians of the Galaxy through the presence of a cocoon in the Collector's museum. The Easter Egg was later explained to be inspired by Adam, not necessarily his introduction to the universe. It wasn't until Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2's post-credits scene when Ayesha revealed that she was using a cocoon to progress the Sovereign race. More specifically, she intended for "Adam" to destroy the Guardians. There were preliminary plans to add Adam to Avengers: Infinity War but the character was cut.

Related: All the Ways Avengers: Endgame Sets Up Guardians of the Galaxy 3

So who exactly is Adam Warlock? In the comics, he was created by a group of scientists called the Enclave who set out to make an artificial, perfect human named "Him." He later escaped and rebelled against his creators before leaving Earth behind to travel into space. At one point he became a member of the Guardians of the Galaxy but the cosmic superhuman also has a close relationship with Thanos. Their friendship is often complicated, as is Adam's death record. He often gets killed and comes back through resurrections, making him stronger each rebirth. Some view Adam as an anti-hero, and some evidence suggests that he could be the villain of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.

After laying down the evidence that Adam Warlock does exist in the MCU, it seems likely that he will make his debut sooner rather than later. With Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 back on track and possibly shooting in 2020, casting news regarding the movie should come in the very near future. Now the real question is who should portray the character in the MCU? Here's a list of actors who would be a suitable choice for Adam Warlock.

Zac Efron

Zac Efron Adam Warlock MCU SR

Rumors have recently been swirling that Zac Efron is in the lead for the role of Adam Warlock for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. Although nothing has been confirmed as of yet, fans have been making a case for why Efron deserves the role. There's even Adam Warlock fan art that features what Efron could look like as the cosmic superhuman. Of course, with supporters also come a number of doubters, citing the actor's past with High School Musical and his lack of direct visual comparison to Him.

However, in this day and age, any actor can go through a transformation with the help of makeup, prosthetics, and simple hair dye. Efron might not be the name that instantly comes to mind when looking at the bulky blond Adam Warlock, but that's no reason to instantly rule him out.

Related: Is Thor Joining Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3?

Nikolaj Coster-Waldau

Nikolaj Coster-Waldau as Jaime Lannister in Game of Thrones

Nikolaj Coster-Waldau has been the top of many fans' wish lists for years when it comes to casting Adam Warlock. The 48-year-old actor certainly embodies Adam's appearance in multiple comic book arcs; the Game of Thrones star is no stranger to medium length blond locks and physical roles. More humorously, Adam tends to wear a lot of red and gold, coincidentally the color palette of House Lannister.

Now that the series is over, Coster-Waldau could possibly have a freed up schedule to pursue another big franchise like Marvel. He would be following the footsteps of other Game of Thrones who joined Marvel projects including Sophie Turner (Dark Phoenix), Maisie Williams (New Mutants), and Richard Madden, who is rumored for a role in The Eternals.

John Krasinski

John Krasinski Marvel

John Krasinski has been another popular name that continues to be brought up in rumors surrounding DC and Marvel casting roles. Recently, Krasinksi was at the forefront of a very high-profile fan casting for a rebooted Fantastic Four. But he would also make for a great Adam Warlock.

Most fans remember him as a star of The Office, but he's transformed into an action star as of late with his role in Jack Ryan. There's no doubt that he could bring the cosmic being to life. Krasinski has even had an exchange with James Gunn on Twitter, proving their dual respect for one another's work. The 39-year-old actor is busy with both TV and movies at the moment - he's currently making A Quiet Place 2 - but an MCU role is hard to pass up at this point.

Related: Recasting the Fantastic Four For the Marvel Cinematic Universe

Travis Fimmel

Travis Fimmel

The MCU has had a lot of luck with Australian actors, just look at Chris Hemsworth. Travis Fimmel would be the next Aussie to join the mix if cast as Adam Warlock. In fact, with Adam's history with Thor in the comics, it's possible the pair could come face to face if the God of Thunder stays with the Guardians in Vol. 3.

Fimmel's striking eyes and natural blond hair definitely makes him another fitting actor to bring Adam to life on the big screen. Fimmel played Ragnar Lothbrok in the hit-series Vikings for four years. He has extensive experience in action-led roles and has ramped up his film career in recent years.

Jamie Bell

Jamie Bell in Man on a Ledge (photo: Summit Entertainment)

Again, Jamie Bell might not be the most obvious choice on the list but his name should not be overlooked. His first foray into superhero movies came with 2015's Fantastic Four in which he played Ben Grimm/The Thing. Even though the movie was overwhelmingly panned by critics and viewers, it should not discredit Bell from a future Marvel role. Indeed, his Fantastic Four co-star, Michael B. Jordan, made his Marvel redemption as Erik Killmonger in Black Panther; and Chris Evans also had a Fantastic Four past before becoming Captain America for the MCU. Bell's most recent role includes a part in the Elton John biopic, Rocketman.

Garrett Hedlund

Garrett Hedlund

Before Chris Evans was cast as Captain America, Garrett Hedlund in the running for the role. He ultimately passed on the role out of loyalty to TRON and scheduling issues. Although he's not quite as big an up-and-comer, Hedlund continues his illustrious career among a number of movie genres with strong character turns. Taking on a role like Adam Warlock would bump his popularity to the next level (as long as he doesn't pass up Marvel a second time).

Related: Every Marvel Movie Releasing After Avengers: Endgame

Freddie Stroma

Freddie Stroma

Freddie Stroma is one of the younger names on the list, but the fact he isn't a household name and has time to grow into the role might help in his favor. Marvel has had a history of casting relatively unknown names and the method has greatly paid off. Adam Warlock himself might not be the most recognized Marvel character (despite being one of the most interesting). Stroma has experience when it comes to major franchises; he played Cormac McLaggen in multiple Harry Potter movies and portrayed Dickon Tarly in Game of Thrones season 6.

Next: Every Upcoming Marvel Cinematic Universe Movie

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