It's confirmed: Channing Tatum is Gambit, and he's slated to star in a standalone movie in 2016! The card-wielding mutant is also rumored to make an appearance in the upcoming "X-Men: Apocalypse." Looks like Tatum is taking over Hugh Jackman's slot as the favored X-Men, if ever the actor decides to leave his Wolverine role in search of greener pastures.

News of Channing Tatum as Gambit started early last year, about the same time first rumors of "X-Men: Apocalypse" surfaced. The "Magic Mike" star was on the fence for the role, but he was pegged for it as early as eight months ago. Talks for the standalone movie dragged, but at least the actor remained the favorite.

"It is Channing, yes, yes. He's a rogue, he's a rascal, just like Remy LeBeau." "X-Men: Days of FuturePast" producer Lauren Shuler-Donner wanted the "Foxcatcher" actor in the role (cinemablend.com).

"He can handle the action, as we know, and he's got a real good heart, I know him personally. He'll be great for Gambit, and he's a southerner too, he understands that world, and you know Gambit loves New Orleans."

Tatum has responded to the favor, said that "Gambit is really the only X-Man I've ever loved."

"I mean I've loved them all, they're all great, but I guess from being down south - my dad's from Louisiana, I'm from Mississippi, Alabama, Florida - I don't know. I just related to him. He's just kind of suave..."

Channing Tatum's Gambit will have its own standalone film, and it's now confirmed an October 7, 2016 release date. In related news, Hugh Jackman is reported to be reconsidering his role as Wolverine; the actor has played the favored X-Men since the first movie came out, and is rumored to be seriously considering leaving the role in search of greener pastures.

Channing Tatum's Gambit will replace Taylor Kitsch, who played the same role in "X-Men Origins: Wolverine."