What Advice Hugh Jackman Gave to Yahya Abdul-Mateen II After DCEU Casting

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Yahya Abdul-Mateen II recently recalled some helpful advice Hugh Jackman gave him after he was cast in a big role for the DC Extended Universe. Abdul-Mateen was thinking about taking on a new superhero character when Jackman shared his thoughts, and the advice really stuck with him.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II on what advice he got from Hugh Jackman after casting in Aquaman

During an appearance on the Heroes Journey podcast, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II shared advice Hugh Jackman gave him when he first got the part of Black Manta in Aquaman. Abdul-Mateen II recalled being on the set of The Greatest Showman and receiving cheers from the crew. Jackman then told him, “It’s more fun to play the villain!” He explained that villains get to have all the best lines, win most of the battles, and work fewer days on set.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II first tried out for the role of Aquaman in late 2016 and early 2017. He remembers feeling like landing a superhero role would be life-changing, and he really wanted the part. He’d worked hard and was eager for a big opportunity. He eventually made his debut as the villain Black Manta in the 2018 film Aquaman.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II played Black Manta again in Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, which was the last movie in the DC Extended Universe. It’s currently unknown if he’ll reprise the role in the new DC Universe being created by James Gunn and Peter Safran. However, the part helped establish Abdul-Mateen II as a prominent actor in superhero films and shows.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II is now the lead in Marvel’s new series, Wonder Man, playing the character Simon Williams. The show will be available to stream on Disney+ starting January 27, 2026. As part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Wonder Man also features Ben Kingsley reprising his role as Trevor Slattery. Andrew Guest created the series, and Disney+ is handling its distribution.

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2026-01-27 07:06