Chris Evans is reportedly making a sensational return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) in the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday.
This highly anticipated Phase 6 movie will also reunite Evans with Robert Downey Jr., sparking major excitement among fans of the franchise. The news raises key questions about Evans’ role and its implications for the MCU.
Who Will Chris Evans Play in Avengers: Doomsday?
One of the biggest mysteries surrounding Evans’ return is the character he’ll portray. Will he reprise his role as Steve Rogers/Captain America, or is Marvel planning a surprising twist?
Anthony Mackie’s Sam Wilson, the new Captain America, is confirmed to appear in Avengers: Doomsday.
This suggests that Evans isn’t returning to challenge Wilson’s position. Instead, he could appear as Old Man Steve Rogers, offering wisdom to the next generation of Avengers.
Alternatively, Marvel might bring back a multiverse version of Captain America, such as Hydra Cap, a variant who worked for the villainous organization in the comics.
A tense alliance between Hydra Cap and Wilson’s Captain America would certainly deliver dramatic tension.
However, there’s also speculation that Evans might play an entirely different character. Earlier this year, his cameo as Johnny Storm/The Human Torch in Deadpool and Wolverine proved Marvel’s willingness to delve into past roles. Still, a fresh, unexpected character might be a more intriguing direction.
Why Is Chris Evans Returning to the MCU?
Marvel’s decision to bring Evans back likely stems from its efforts to reignite audience interest in the Multiverse Saga.
While 2024 has been a solid year for Marvel, with hits like Deadpool and Wolverine and Agatha All Along on Disney+, the franchise has struggled to recapture the magic of the Infinity Saga.
The return of beloved stars like Robert Downey Jr. and Chris Evans, coupled with the Russo Brothers’ involvement in directing Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars, signals a deliberate move to win back fans.
Downey Jr., now cast as the villainous Doctor Victor von Doom, is already generating buzz. Reuniting with Evans adds another layer of nostalgia that’s sure to drive box office success.
From a business perspective, this strategy makes sense. Familiar faces and iconic characters are a proven way to boost ticket sales and reignite fan enthusiasm.
While some might view it as a desperate attempt to regain footing, the financial and emotional payoff for Marvel and Disney is undeniable.
Is Scarlett Johansson Next in Line for a Surprise MCU Return?
With Evans and Downey Jr. back in the fold, fans are wondering if Scarlett Johansson’s Natasha Romanoff/Black Widow might also return.
Among the original Avengers lineup, Johansson remains the only member not confirmed for Avengers: Doomsday.
Romanoff’s death in Avengers: Endgame complicates matters. A resurrection or multiverse version of Black Widow could risk undermining her emotional sacrifice in that film.
Still, given the Multiverse Saga’s nostalgic leanings, Johansson could play an alternate version of her iconic character or even a completely new role.
While this possibility seems unlikely, it’s a tantalizing thought for fans eager to see the original Avengers reassembled one last time.
