We Checked Out the Alternate Ending of ‘X-Men: Dark Phoenix’ & It’s Seriously Heartbreaking

Before Disney acquired Fox, the X-Men franchise set the benchmark for large-scale shared universes, a standard that the MCU later refined. The X-Men films were generally successful, with a few missteps, but they were beloved by fans, myself included.

The franchise also innovated by revisiting the past, presenting younger versions of familiar characters, and eventually blending these timelines. While X-Men: Dark Phoenix wasn’t the final film in the franchise, it wrapped up the main storyline on a bittersweet yet hopeful note.

Recently, an alternate ending for the film surfaced online, and we’ve had a chance to view it. This alternative conclusion alters everything and is, without a doubt, one of the saddest endings imaginable for the X-Men saga. Whether it would have been an improvement is up for debate—watch it below and form your own opinion!

Before we reveal the footage, let’s recap: X-Men: Dark Phoenix adapts the comic book storyline where Jean Grey transforms into the Dark Phoenix, becoming a global threat. In the ensuing battle, Jean Grey sacrifices her life, leaving the mutant world reeling from the loss of one of its most powerful members and a cherished friend. The original ending, while bittersweet, offered a sense of hope.

Following the tragic event, Scott erects a new plaque renaming the school to “Jean Grey School for Gifted Youngsters” in her honor. Storm takes on the role of teacher, and Beast becomes the new headmaster, reflecting on Mystique. Charles Xavier eventually retires after years of advocating for mutant rights. In Paris, Erik joins him for a game of chess, which Xavier accepts. As they begin their game, a flaming phoenix appears in the sky.

That was the ending we all saw. Now, take a look at the alternative ending:

Bummer, right?

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