Lenore Zann, the voice of Rogue in X-Men ’97, posted a video message welcoming actress Inde Navarrette to the role of live-action Rogue [1].
The interaction marks a symbolic passing of the torch for one of Marvel's most prominent mutant characters as the franchise expands into a live-action reboot. For fans of the series, the endorsement from a legacy performer provides a bridge between the beloved animated continuity and the new cinematic direction.
Navarrette was confirmed as the MCU's live-action Rogue in July 2026 [1]. Following the announcement, Zann shared a video on YouTube to express her excitement [2]. Zann has provided the voice for Rogue in animated projects since the 1990s [1], making her one of the most enduring voices in the X-Men franchise.
In the video, Zann used the character's signature southern charm to greet her successor. "Look forward to meetin' ya, sugah!" Zann said [3].
The welcoming gesture extends beyond a simple greeting. Zann expressed a desire to see the character evolve on the big screen. "I'm thrilled to welcome Inde Navarrette to the Rogue family and can't wait to see her bring the character to life on screen," Zann said [4].
The casting of Navarrette is part of a broader effort by Marvel Studios to integrate the X-Men into the existing MCU framework. While the animated series has seen success in recapturing the nostalgia of the original series, the live-action reboot represents a significant financial and creative investment for the studio.
Zann's public support highlights a collaborative spirit between the different eras of the franchise. By acknowledging Navarrette, Zann helps validate the new casting for a fanbase that is often protective of the original characterizations established in the 1990s [1].
“"Look forward to meetin' ya, sugah!"”
This public endorsement serves as a strategic move to align the legacy fan base of the X-Men animated series with the new MCU direction. By bridging the gap between the voice acting history and the new live-action casting, Marvel reduces potential friction among longtime followers of the character while building anticipation for the reboot's debut.
