Hugh Jackman not leaving X-Men franchise after 'The Wolverine 3'?

Hugh Jackman has portrayed Wolverine seven times since he first appeared as the character in X-Men in 2000. His next appearance is in X-Men: Days of Future Past, which hits U.S. theaters next Friday.

Speculation has abounded for quite a while that he might leave the franchise after the third solo Wolverine movie in 2017 (he could also appear in X-Men: Apocalypse in 2016). Jackman himself has even commented recently that he has been looking beyond Wolverine and when he might be done with the character.

But in a new interview with IGN, the actor changed his tune somewhat and revealed that Days of Future Past reinvigorated the franchise for him:

"At one point, you're right, I said I was pretty sure (about leaving the role). But I'm less sure as it goes along. Because after seeing this movie, the whole thing feels fresher to me than ever. And during this movie...I don't want to spoil anything, but it's kind of like a clean slate, so who knows where it's going to go. As long as I have the passion for it, and the fans will have me."

So it looks like Jackman could stick around a while longer as long as the franchise continues to produce quality films. Of course, nothing is official until the studio confirms it, but this latest news at least comes directly from Jackman.

What do you think, X-Men fans? How long do you think Jackman will portray the clawed mutant? Should he pass on the reins, or should he keep going as long as he can? Let us know in the comments below.