Photo Credit: Netflix
Heartstopper star Kit Connor’s newly revealed Cyclops physique has sparked a debate among Marvel fans. The actor is preparing to play Scott Summers/Cyclops in Marvel Studios’ upcoming X-Men reboot, and a newly shared training photo has divided the fanbase online. While many praised his dedication, others expressed concern that he is becoming too muscular for the role.
The reactions come just days after Marvel officially revealed the new X-Men cast at the D23 event. Connor’s physical transformation has quickly become the talking point among fans. The actor is best known for playing Nick Nelson in Netflix’s Heartstopper, but his upcoming role is physically demanding.
Kit Connor in newly shared photo.He will play Cyclops in the #MCU. pic.twitter.com/U8ClsP9o3w— Cosmic Marvel (@cosmic_marvel) August 18, 2026
Reactions across social media platform X have been mixed. @MyTimeToShineH wrote, “He’s getting TOO big. Cyclops doesn’t need to be that big.”
Similarly, @Jalter_Says suggested that Connor “needs to cut,” while @midmcu compared the actor’s new physique to Dave Bautista.
No disrespect, but he needs to cut because he looks fat while also looking fit at the same time.— Nightfall ??? (@Jalter_Says) August 19, 2026
Other reactions were even more direct. @Realnyxtino_ joked that Connor looks “more fit for Captain America now” while @WadeSarimbu simply wrote, “Wrong cast.” Not everyone agreed with the criticism.
@BattinsonMarvel pointed out the contradiction in the fan reactions, saying, “Man, people just can’t be satisfied. He’s either too skinny and he must bulk up, or he is too bulky and he must slim down.”
Who else has been cast in Marvel’s new X-Men movie?
Marvel’s new mutant lineup brings together a fresh talent base. Sadie Sink was the first member announced for the upcoming film, taking on the role of Jean Grey. Samara Weaving will play Emma Frost, while Inde Navarette has been cast as Rogue. Maya Boyd will play Storm, and Christopher Abbott will portray Professor X. Adam Driver has also joined the cast as Nathaniel Milbury, aka Mister Sinister.
The new X-Men film will mark the introduction of a new generation of mutants to the MCU. It is directed by Jake Schreier and written by Lee Sung Jin and Joanna Calo. The film is currently set for release on May 5, 2028.
