**Avengers: Doomsday Teaser Highlights the Complex Relationship Between Professor X and Magneto**
Arriving this December, Marvel Studios’ *Avengers: Doomsday* marks a major step forward for both the titular sub-franchise and the wider Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Since Disney acquired Fox in 2019, the MCU has gradually integrated the X-Men and their mutant world into its established canon.
So far, the mutants have largely appeared in cameos, such as in *Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness* and *The Marvels*. Even the biggest showcase to date, 2023’s *Deadpool & Wolverine*, kept the Fox characters mostly separate from those within the MCU. That is set to change with *Doomsday*, which promises the return of several original X-Men actors, and even more excitingly, two of Fox’s biggest stars: Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellen. They will reprise their iconic roles as Charles Xavier/Professor X and Erik Lehnsherr/Magneto.
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### The Enduring Dynamic of Professor X and Magneto
The relationship between Professor X and Magneto has long been a cornerstone of the X-Men franchise. From their first appearances in comics and on screen, the complex, evolving dynamic between these friends-turned-enemies has captivated fans. With moments of alliance and conflict, there has been plenty to explore—and for many, the idea of a romantic relationship between the two characters has never been too far-fetched.
Although no explicit X-Men media has ever overtly tackled this interpretation, the latest *Avengers: Doomsday* teaser has reignited the conversation.
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### A New Teaser Puts “Cherik” in the Spotlight
After marketing focused on prominent Avengers like Steve Rogers (Chris Evans) and Thor (Chris Hemsworth), Marvel shifted its *Doomsday* campaign to highlight the X-Men. A minute-long trailer introduced Charles Xavier, Erik Lehnsherr, and Cyclops (James Marsden).
Unlike previous teasers that mostly spotlighted individual heroes, this footage shows Charles and Erik together once again. As Ian McKellen’s voiceover reflects on the inevitability of death, the two frenemies reunite amidst the ruins of Xavier’s mansion. They clasp hands and share a smile—an evocative, powerful moment that hints at reconciliation in the face of the apocalypse.
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### Why This Moment Resonates
Seeing Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellen together on screen again carries significant weight. Stewart, McKellen, and Hugh Jackman basically created the original X-Men franchise back in 2000, and fans have a deep connection to their portrayals. The actors share a warmth and affection that adds genuine emotional depth to this brief encounter, underscoring that regardless of what happens later in the film, these two characters have found a way back to each other.
While their bond is clearly platonic, the romantic interpretation of their relationship definitely holds merit. Whether it’s their final conversation in Magno’s cell in *X-Men* (2000) or Charles unlocking Erik’s memories in *X-Men: First Class*, viewing their connection as one between lovers—or exes—is entirely possible. Even some actors have supported this viewpoint.
James McAvoy, who played the younger Charles in Fox’s prequels, told GQ in 2022:
*“If it was well-written I would be bang up for it. I would be bang up for it. And maybe that’s why Marvel have taken their time because they need to get it right.”*
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### “Cherik” Isn’t Likely, But *Doomsday* Might Be the Best Chance Yet
Shipping culture—fans pairing characters romantically regardless of canonical relationships—is not new. It has fueled passionate debates and communities, from *Stranger Things*’ Will Byers and Mike Wheeler to MCU’s Steve Rogers and Bucky Barnes.
Charles and Erik together, affectionately known as “Cherik” in fandom circles, is one of the more prominent and beloved ships. Despite this, given the MCU’s cautious approach to queer storylines and the large-scale nature of *Avengers: Doomsday*, an official romance between Professor X and Magneto seems unlikely.
That said, *Doomsday* might present the best opportunity yet to acknowledge “Cherik,” even if only briefly. Marvel head Kevin Feige has indicated the X-Men will be rebooted after the upcoming Avengers movies, introducing a new cast and storyline. This means the film could subtly allude to a Charles/Erik romance without committing to it long-term.
Such a move would allow McKellen and Stewart to explore a new dimension of their characters while recognizing a fanbase eager for representation.
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### The Legacy and Possibility of “Cherik”
Although the last live-action portrayal of Professor X and Magneto was in 2019’s *X-Men: Dark Phoenix*, the fandom’s enthusiasm for “Cherik” remains strong. The ship traces its roots to comics and animated series, adding depth and intrigue to their dynamic.
For example, the moment Erik accidentally paralyzes Charles in *X-Men: First Class* takes on a different emotional tone when viewed through a romantic lens.
Still, keeping expectations realistic is important. The short teaser is not a definitive sign of what’s to come, and Marvel’s risk-averse reputation suggests such a storyline might never materialize. Additionally, a portion of the audience may not embrace the idea.
At a minimum, *Avengers: Doomsday* appears to honor the incredible history between Charles and Erik, reaffirming their complex, enduring connection.
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### Looking Ahead
Whether you ship “Cherik” or prefer to see Charles Xavier and Erik Lehnsherr as friends or rivals, there’s no denying the excitement for what’s next.
*Avengers: Doomsday* hits theaters on December 18. Get ready to witness one of Marvel’s most iconic relationships brought back to life in a way fans won’t soon forget.
https://collider.com/avengers-doomsday-professor-x-magneto-relationship-x-men-mcu/
