Channing Tatum may be limping, but that won’t stop him from tackling a fresh challenge in his latest film, ‘Roofman.’ The star, known for roles packed with athleticism and charm, dives into the story of Jeffrey Manchester, an infamous criminal who famously hid out in a Toys R Us after a daring prison escape.

In an exclusive lunch chat, Tatum shared the complications of filming 'Avengers: Doomsday' while sidelined by an injury. "If I hadn’t hurt myself, we’d probably be out bowling,” he quips, acknowledging that physical issues can sneak up on even the fittest stars. At 45, Tatum navigates the realities of aging as he prepares for a big six-month recovery process.

Finding Home in an Abandoned Toy Store

Tatum’s transformation for 'Roofman,' set for release on October 10, sees him inhabit Manchester, a master criminal who, in 2004, orchestrated a chaotic escape from prison to provide for his daughter. Tatum's character leads a double life, hiding out in a refurbished Toys R Us while forming unexpected relationships—like his romance with a local woman played by Kirsten Dunst. The setup allows Tatum to explore a more playful, childlike side of himself.

The Journey Back to the Spotlight

After taking a break from acting, Tatum came back swinging with hits like 'Dog' and 'The Lost City.' He reflects on feeling burnt out before his hiatus. “I was questioning if I ever should have been in this business,” he says, capturing the tensions many stars face as they age in an industry often fixated on youth.

A Creative Reunion with Director Derek Cianfrance

Director Derek Cianfrance, who shares a similar journey after stepping away from the spotlight, pitched Tatum the story of Manchester while they strolled through Brooklyn's Prospect Park. Cianfrance described their initial meeting as electric, as he envisioned Tatum as the ideal fit for the role.

Embracing the Complexity of a Living Character

Playing a real person again brought Tatum apprehension after his challenging experience with the film 'Foxcatcher.' Tatum aims to embody Manchester with care, noting, “I hope Jeff loves the movie,” reflecting on the importance of capturing the spirit of the character.

Why ‘Roofman’ Could be a Game Changer

With its unique storyline based on actual events, 'Roofman' has attracted attention and hints at success. Manchester’s saga—where kindness flickers through chaos—offers audiences a complex character study rather than a simplistic hero narrative.

Reviving Gambit: A Long-Awaited Comeback

Tatum is also set to star as Gambit in 'Avengers: Doomsday,' a character he has pursued for years. While he sidesteps questions about the Marvel franchise’s current trajectory, Tatum is determined to infuse Gambit with depth and charisma.

A Balancing Act of Career and Fatherhood

Despite the demands of his career, Tatum is a dedicated dad to his daughter Everly. He navigates the difficulty of balancing work and family, reflecting on how his roles often resonate with the values of fatherhood.

Looking Ahead: A Decade of New Beginnings

Tatum is brimming with excitement about the future, treating his career as a fresh canvas to explore diverse roles. The actor’s journey from a muscular romantic lead to a nuanced artist shows that while aging is inevitable, staying connected to one’s inner child can keep the passion alive.

In an industry where trends change rapidly, Tatum’s ambitious plans for the next decade—balancing blockbuster hits with deeper, character-driven films—might just redefine what it means to grow in Hollywood.