Chris Evans Confirms No Return to Marvel's Avengers

Chris Evans Denies Return to Marvel Cinematic Universe

Chris Evans, renowned for his role as Captain America in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), has firmly denied rumors of his return to the franchise in the upcoming film Avengers: Doomsday or any other future projects. In an interview with Esquire, Evans debunked a report from Deadline suggesting his comeback alongside Robert Downey Jr., another original Avenger, stating emphatically, "That's not true, though. This always happens. I mean, it happens every couple years, ever since Endgame. I've just stopped responding to it. Yeah, no. Happily retired."

The rumors started swirling after Anthony Mackie, who succeeded Evans as Captain America following Avengers: Endgame, mentioned to Esquire that he was informed by his manager about Evans' potential return. However, Mackie later clarified his conversation with Evans, saying, "I talked to Chris a few weeks ago and it wasn’t on the table then. At least, he didn’t tell me it was on the table, because I asked him. I was like, ‘You know, they said they’re bringing everyone back for the movie. Are you coming back?’ He goes, ‘Oh, you know, I’m happily retired'."

Despite his retirement from the MCU as Captain America, Evans did make a cameo as his former Fox character Johnny Storm in Deadpool & Wolverine, a more lighthearted role compared to his intense portrayal of Steve Rogers.

MCU's Current State and Future Projects

The MCU has been facing uncertainties, particularly after the departure of Jonathan Majors, who played Kang and was set to be the franchise's next major antagonist akin to Thanos. Majors was dropped from the franchise following his conviction for assault and harassment, leaving Marvel in a state of flux.

In response, Marvel has announced that Doctor Doom will be the new central villain, with Robert Downey Jr. set to portray him. This casting decision fueled speculation about the return of other original Avengers, though no further confirmations have been made.

Benedict Cumberbatch, who plays Doctor Strange, confirmed that his character will not feature in Avengers: Doomsday but will have a "central role" in the sequel, Avengers: Secret Wars. The film will be directed by the Russo Brothers, known for their work on previous Avengers movies, and is expected to delve further into the multiverse narrative, with Hayley Atwell's Agent Carter also slated to appear.