Marvel Star Benedict Cumberbatch Says Doctor Strange Is Skipping Avengers Doomsday But Is a 'Central' Part of Secret Wars

Benedict Cumberbatch recently shared that his Marvel Cinematic Universe character, Doctor Strange, will not be appearing in the upcoming Avengers Doomsday but is set to play a "central role" in its sequel, Avengers Secret Wars. In an interview with Variety, Cumberbatch accidentally let slip this spoiler and humorously remarked, "f**k it," before elaborating on his character's future in the MCU. He hinted at Doctor Strange's pivotal role in the narrative direction of the films, saying, "He’s quite central to where things might go." Additionally, Cumberbatch confirmed that a third standalone Doctor Strange movie is in the works.

Cumberbatch expressed excitement about the ongoing development of Doctor Strange's story, stating, "They are very open to discussing where we go next. Who do you want to write and direct the next one? What part of the comic lore do you want to explore so that Strange can keep evolving?" He highlighted the depth of the character, describing him as "a very rich character to play. He’s a complex, contradictory, troubled human who’s got these extraordinary abilities, so there’s potent stuff to mess about with."

Marvel Cinematic Universe: Every Upcoming Movie and TV Show

18 Images

Regarding his absence from Avengers Doomsday, Cumberbatch explained that it's due to "the character not aligning with this part of the story." This upcoming Avengers film will feature Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom and reportedly Chris Evans as well, though details remain scarce. The Russo Brothers, former directors of the Avengers series, are at the helm of this project, which will continue to explore the multiverse, with Hayley Atwell's Agent Carter also expected to appear.

Looking ahead, Phase 6 of the MCU will begin with The Fantastic Four: First Steps this July. Avengers Doomsday is slated for release on May 1, 2026, followed by Avengers Secret Wars on May 7, 2027.