Dafne Keen, the young actress who captured hearts with her portrayal of Laura, also known as X-23, in the 2017 film Logan, has expressed a deep desire to continue playing the character for the rest of her life. Now 19 years old, Keen first stepped into the role of Wolverine’s daughter when she was just 11, leaving a lasting impression on audiences and critics alike with her fierce and emotive performance.
In a recent interview on The Empire Film Podcast, Keen shared her enthusiasm for returning to the role of X-23, which she reprised in a surprise appearance in Deadpool & Wolverine. Her excitement about playing the mutant character again was palpable, as she said, “I would 100% do this for the rest of my life. She’s such a fun character to play emotionally, she’s so demanding physically, which is something that I love doing. I’d kill to do it again.”
Keen’s portrayal of Laura in Logan was a standout in the film, which was a fitting swan song for Hugh Jackman’s iconic role as Wolverine. The chemistry between Keen and Jackman was undeniable, and their on-screen relationship brought depth and emotional weight to the story. Keen’s ability to convey raw emotion, combined with her intense physical performance, made her one of the most memorable aspects of the film.
Reflecting on her experience working with Hugh Jackman again in Deadpool & Wolverine, Keen gushed about the opportunity to share the screen with him once more. “Getting to act with him again was wonderful. I genuinely don’t think I’m better with any other actor. My best acting is when I’m with him,” she admitted. This bond between the two actors was evident in their scenes together, particularly in a poignant campfire conversation that Keen highlighted as a standout moment.
“It was a really beautiful scene that they wrote for us,” Keen said of the emotional exchange. “It perfectly encapsulated Logan’s guilt and Laura’s guilt for not having said ‘thank you’. She’s getting a second chance, which you don’t usually get.” This scene not only resonated with fans of the X-Men franchise but also provided a sense of closure and growth for both characters.
Keen’s passion for the role of X-23 is understandable, given the character’s complexity and the unique challenges it presents. Laura is not just a clone of Wolverine; she is a character with her own struggles, emotions, and growth. Keen’s ability to bring these layers to life on screen is a testament to her talent and dedication as an actress.
In addition to her work in the X-Men universe, Dafne Keen has continued to build an impressive career. She stars in the Disney+ series The Acolyte, where she further showcases her range as an actress. However, it’s clear that X-23 holds a special place in her heart, and fans of the character are eager to see more of her in the future.
Keen’s journey from child actress to a young adult with a growing resume is an inspiring one. Born to British and Spanish parents, she has embraced the opportunities that have come her way, consistently delivering performances that are both powerful and nuanced. Her ability to handle the physical demands of roles like X-23, combined with her emotional depth, makes her a unique talent in Hollywood.
Her commitment to the role of Laura goes beyond just acting; it’s about understanding the character’s psyche and the physicality that comes with it. Keen has always been open about her love for physically demanding roles, and X-23 provides her with the perfect outlet for that passion. The character’s agility, strength, and ferocity are traits that Keen embodies with ease, making her a perfect fit for the role.
One of the interesting tidbits Keen shared during her interview was how she confided in Mexican filmmaker Alfonso Cuarón about her appearance in Deadpool & Wolverine. Keen revealed that Cuarón was one of the first people to learn about her return to the character, mainly because she is best friends with his daughter. This connection with Cuarón, a respected director known for films like Gravity and Roma, adds another layer to Keen’s growing influence in the film industry.
As Deadpool & Wolverine continues to draw audiences to cinemas, Keen’s portrayal of Laura is once again being celebrated. The film’s success is not only a testament to the enduring popularity of the X-Men characters but also to Keen’s ability to leave a lasting impact on viewers.
Looking ahead, the future seems bright for Dafne Keen. Her desire to continue playing X-23 for as long as possible is a sentiment that many fans share. The character of Laura has become an integral part of the X-Men universe, and Keen’s portrayal has set a high standard for any future incarnations.
As she continues to evolve as an actress, Keen’s connection to X-23 is likely to grow even deeper. Whether it’s through more appearances in the X-Men films or perhaps even a standalone X-23 movie, the possibilities are exciting. Keen’s dedication to the role, combined with her natural talent, suggests that she could indeed play Laura for the rest of her life, as she hopes.
In conclusion, Dafne Keen’s love for the character of X-23 is clear, and her willingness to continue portraying the mutant for years to come is a dream that many fans hope will come true. As she balances her career with other projects, it’s evident that X-23 will always be a role that defines her journey as an actress. Whether she’s slicing through enemies with adamantium claws or navigating the complex emotions of a young mutant, Dafne Keen’s portrayal of Laura will remain iconic for years to come.
