The Top 9 Actors to Reboot Nick Fury in the MCU: A Fresh Take on an Iconic Role

9. Will Smith: A Diverse Talent for a New Era of Nick Fury

Kicking off our list at number nine is the versatile Will Smith, whose dynamic acting range makes him a prime candidate for reinventing the role of Nick Fury. Smith's charisma is on par with Samuel L. Jackson's, and his experience in action-packed roles, such as Deadshot in 'Suicide Squad,' demonstrates his ability to take on complex comic book characters. His blend of drama, comedy, and action is well-suited for the MCU, where he could bring a fresh perspective to Fury while honoring the legacy Jackson created.

Will Smith as Deadshot in Suicide Squad

8. Jeffrey Dean Morgan: Gruff Authority as SHIELD's Director

At number eight, Jeffrey Dean Morgan's gruff and confident demeanor makes him an excellent choice for a classic take on Nick Fury. Known for his roles as Negan in 'The Walking Dead' and The Comedian in 'Watchmen,' Morgan's authoritative presence and hard-edged comedic timing could translate well into the role of SHIELD's director. He could bring a faithful adaptation of the comic book version of Fury, providing a continuity that respects the original character while fitting seamlessly into the MCU.

Jeffrey Dean Morgan as Negan in The Walking Dead Season 7 Episode 4

7. Jamie Foxx: Charismatic Cool for the MCU's Spy Master

Number seven on our list is Jamie Foxx, whose cool demeanor and comedic chops could capture the essence of Samuel L. Jackson's portrayal of Nick Fury. Foxx's experience in blending humor with action, as seen in 'Day Shift,' positions him as a strong contender to continue the legacy of the MCU's spy master. His ability to convey sarcasm and satire could make him a fan favorite in a role that demands an actor of considerable charisma and gravitas.

Jamie Foxx looks confused in Day Shift

6. Scott Adkins: A Martial Arts Prodigy for an Action-Packed Fury

At number six, Scott Adkins brings a martial arts pedigree that could redefine Nick Fury as an action-oriented character within the MCU. Adkins's physical acting abilities, showcased in films like 'Lights Out,' make him a prime choice for depicting Fury's years as an active SHIELD agent. His expertise in action and martial arts could allow for a more hands-on and combat-ready version of Fury, setting a new standard for the character's physicality in future MCU installments.

Scott Adkins aiming a gun in Lights Out

5. Michael Jai White: A Commanding Presence for Heroic Fury

Landing at number five, Michael Jai White's imposing stature and martial arts talent could bring a new dimension to Nick Fury. White's extensive action background could enable Fury to step out from behind the director's desk and engage in physical combat alongside other MCU heroes. His portrayal could offer a more heroic take on the character, emphasizing Fury's ability to hold his own in the thick of battle.

Michael Jai White speaks in As Good As Dead

4. Yahya Abdul-Mateen II: A Fresh Spin with Comic Book Flair

Number four on our list is Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, whose recent comic book and action roles uniquely qualify him to take on the mantle of Nick Fury. Abdul-Mateen's portrayal of Black Manta and Morpheus highlights his ability to reinvent iconic characters, making him a fitting successor to Jackson's Fury. His experience in 'Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom' and 'The Matrix Resurrections' demonstrates his capability to bring depth and a new spin to beloved characters within the MCU.

Yahya Abul-Mateen II's Morpheus in a yellow suit in The Matrix Resurrections

3. Mark Wahlberg: Action Meets Comedy in the MCU's Fury

At number three, Mark Wahlberg's action and comedy background makes him an enticing choice for the role of Nick Fury. Wahlberg's versatility as an actor, evident in his performances in 'The Other Guys' and 'Lone Survivor,' allows him to capture the commanding yet humorous spirit of Fury. His star power and ability to navigate between intense action sequences and comedic moments could bring a balanced and engaging portrayal of Fury to the MCU.

Will Ferrell as Allen Gamble having his tie pulled by Mark Wahlberg as Terry Hoitz in The Other Guys

2. Michael C. Hall: The Intensity of Marvel's Greatest Spy

Michael C. Hall takes the second spot on our list, with his intense acting style making him an ideal candidate for the role of Nick Fury. Best known for his role in 'Dexter,' Hall's ability to portray complex characters with duplicity could translate into a captivating portrayal of Marvel's greatest spy. A Hall-led Fury could feature in an MCU TV show focusing on the character's espionage activities, offering a thrilling and nuanced addition to the franchise.

Michael C Hall as Dexter Morgan looking worried in the woods in Dexter: New Blood

1. Josh Duhamel: A Leading Man's Take on Fury's MCU Journey

Topping our list at number one, Josh Duhamel could offer a leading man's quality to the MCU's Nick Fury, distinguishing him from Samuel L. Jackson's portrayal. Duhamel's resemblance to the comic version of Nick Fury Sr. could offer a creative twist in the MCU, potentially exploring an alternate timeline where Fury's father is the central figure. Duhamel's leading-man charisma and experience in a mix of action roles make him a compelling choice to lead Fury's story into a new era.

Josh Duhamel as Will Lennox holding a gun and looking surprised in Transformers.