Conan O’Brien Holds Wolverine Auditions to Find Hugh Jackman’s Replacement

Last year Hugh Jackman said he would love to play Wolverine until he’s dead, but the actor confirmed this year that the upcoming sequel to The Wolverine will mark his last time playing the character. And with Hollywood’s inevitable cycle of reboots, it’s only a matter of time before we get a new Wolverine. Enter Conan O’Brien, who showcased some hilarious auditions for actors who could potentially replace Jackman.

Among the contenders for the role of Wolverine are Silicon Valley’s Thomas Middleditch (who should be a much bigger star than he currently is), American treasure Nick Offerman, comedian and professional nerd Patton Oswalt, Michael Sheen, Kristen Schaal (who thinks she’s auditioning for Ghostbusters), and the intensely funny Hannibal Burress.

But none of them are as hilarious as venerable nighttime talk show host Larry King. Not even Betty White, which is such a predictable choice for when you want someone unexpected.

The whole “reel” is great, from Offerman’s refusal to do a second take, to Sheen’s James Bond take on the character, and Oswalt’s musical-infused entrance — a nod at Jackman’s own stage background.

Conan O’Brien is currently at Comic-Con 2015, where he hosted today’s panel for The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2 and will broadcast his show live from San Diego. Stay tuned here for ongoing coverage from the con!