Chris Evans Confirms No Return to MCU for Avengers

Chris Evans, known for his role as Captain America in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), has firmly stated that he will not be returning to the MCU for Avengers: Doomsday or any other upcoming films. This clarification comes in response to a report from Deadline, which suggested that Evans would reprise his role alongside Robert Downey Jr., another original Avenger. Evans debunked these rumors in an interview with Esquire, stating, "That's not true, though... I mean, it happens every couple years, ever since Endgame. I've just stopped responding to it. Yeah, no. Happily retired."

The confusion arose partly due to comments from Anthony Mackie, who succeeded Evans as Captain America after the latter's character retired in Avengers: Endgame. Mackie mentioned to Esquire that he had not seen a script for the upcoming film but was informed by his manager that Evans might return. However, Mackie later spoke directly with Evans, who confirmed he was not considering a comeback, saying, "Oh, you know, I'm happily retired."

Despite his retirement from the MCU as Captain America, Evans did make a brief return to the Marvel universe by reprising his role as Johnny Storm from the Fox franchise in Deadpool & Wolverine. This appearance was more of a comedic side role, distinct from his central role as Captain America.

The MCU is currently navigating a period of uncertainty following the departure of Jonathan Majors, who played Kang the Conqueror. Majors was set to be the franchise's next major antagonist, akin to Thanos, but was removed after being found guilty of assault and harassment. In response, Marvel has announced that Doctor Doom, to be portrayed by Robert Downey Jr., will take over as the new primary villain. This shift has fueled speculation about the return of other original Avengers, though no official confirmations have been made.

In other MCU developments, Benedict Cumberbatch, who plays Doctor Strange, has confirmed that his character will not appear in Avengers: Doomsday but will have a "central role" in the subsequent film, Avengers: Secret Wars. The Russo Brothers, former directors of the Avengers series, are set to helm Secret Wars, which will continue to explore the multiverse narrative, with Hayley Atwell's Agent Carter also expected to feature in the film.