Chris Evans Denies Return to Marvel Cinematic Universe Despite Rumors
Despite reports suggesting his return, Chris Evans has definitively stated he will not be reprising his role as Captain America in Avengers: Doomsday or any other Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) film. Evans directly refuted a Deadline report claiming his comeback alongside Robert Downey Jr., calling it "not true" in an interview with Esquire.
This contradicts information shared by Anthony Mackie, the current Captain America, who initially told Esquire that his manager informed him of Evans' return. However, Mackie subsequently spoke to Evans, who confirmed his retirement from the MCU remains firm. "I talked to Chris a few weeks ago and it wasn’t on the table then," Mackie stated. Evans himself reiterated his retirement, saying, "Happily retired." This isn't the first time such rumors have surfaced since Avengers: Endgame.
While Evans has technically returned to the superhero genre, his appearance as Johnny Storm in Deadpool & Wolverine was a smaller, comedic role distinct from his Captain America tenure.
The MCU's future remains somewhat uncertain following Jonathan Majors' removal from the franchise due to assault and harassment charges. Majors' portrayal of Kang, intended as the next Thanos-level villain, has left Marvel Studios seemingly reshuffling its plans.
Doctor Doom, played by Robert Downey Jr., has been announced as the new primary antagonist. This announcement fueled speculation about other original Avengers returning, but no further confirmations have been made.
Benedict Cumberbatch, the Doctor Strange actor, confirmed his absence from Avengers: Doomsday but hinted at a "central role" in its sequel, Avengers: Secret Wars. The Russo Brothers are directing Avengers: Doomsday, which is expected to continue the multiverse storyline, with Hayley Atwell's Agent Carter also rumored to appear.