Since the monumental events of Avengers: Endgame, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has undergone significant transformations, notably the dissolution of the Avengers team. As the MCU continues to evolve, new heroes have emerged to fill the void left by the likes of Iron Man and Captain America. However, fans will have to wait until the end of Phase 6 for a proper Avengers reunion, culminating in the epic showdowns of Avengers: Doomsday in 2026 and Avengers: Secret Wars in 2027. Here's a look at the characters expected to assemble in these pivotal films.
Who Will Be the New Avengers in the MCU?
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Wong
In the wake of Tony Stark and Steve Rogers' departures, Benedict Wong's character, Wong, has become the linchpin of the MCU in Phases 4 and 5. His presence spans multiple projects, including Spider-Man: No Way Home, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. His humorous camaraderie with Patty Guggenheim's Madisynn in She-Hulk has also endeared him to fans. As the new Sorcerer Supreme, Wong is tasked with defending the world from emerging threats, making him a crucial figure in rallying the Avengers for their next assembly.
Shang-Chi
Simu Liu's Shang-Chi is poised to join the Avengers in Phase 6, especially after being summoned by Wong at the end of Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. With his mastery over the mystical Ten Rings, Shang-Chi is a valuable asset to the team. The mid-credits scene in his film hints at a deeper mystery surrounding these artifacts, which could play a significant role in Avengers: Doomsday.
Doctor Strange
Despite Wong's ascension to Sorcerer Supreme, Stephen Strange remains a vital part of the Avengers. His expertise in magic and the multiverse is indispensable. Currently aiding Charlize Theron's Clea in another universe to address the Incursion problem, Strange's return is anticipated to be pivotal in the battle against Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom in Avengers: Doomsday.
Captain America
No Avengers team feels complete without Captain America. With Chris Evans' Steve Rogers retired, Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson has taken up the mantle. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier showcased Sam's journey to accepting the shield, and Captain America: Brave New World will further explore his evolution. Sam's role in rallying the team is crucial, especially after President Ross proposes forming a new, government-sanctioned Avengers team. Despite initial tensions, Sam emerges ready to lead.
War Machine
Don Cheadle's War Machine is stepping into the spotlight in the Multiverse Saga, with his own film, Armor Wars, focusing on preventing Tony Stark's tech from falling into the wrong hands. As an experienced soldier with significant firepower, War Machine is poised to fill the void left by Iron Man in the Avengers.
Ironheart
Dominique Thorne's Riri Williams, introduced in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, is set to become the MCU's new Iron Man. Her intelligence and innovative armor will be crucial in the fight against Doctor Doom in Avengers: Doomsday, as showcased in her upcoming series, Ironheart.
Spider-Man
Tom Holland's Peter Parker remains a central figure in the MCU, despite choosing to return to being a Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man. The complication of the world forgetting his identity adds intrigue, but Wong's potential knowledge of Spider-Man's secret could bring him back into the Avengers fold.
She-Hulk
While Mark Ruffalo's Hulk may take a backseat, Tatiana Maslany's She-Hulk is emerging as the new powerhouse on the Avengers. Her intelligence, strength, and unique fourth-wall-breaking ability make her an ideal candidate for the team.
The Marvels
Captain Marvel's team in The Marvels, including Brie Larson's Carol Danvers, Teyonah Parris' Monica Rambeau, and Iman Vellani's Kamala Khan, is expected to play significant roles in Doomsday and Secret Wars. Captain Marvel's leadership qualities make her a strong contender to lead the new Avengers, while Kamala's enthusiasm for superhero teams could see her joining the ranks.
How Many Avengers Is Too Many?
With the potential for a large roster in Avengers: Doomsday, the MCU could follow the comics' example of having multiple teams or a large pool of heroes to tackle various threats. This approach could enrich the narrative and allow for diverse storylines.
Hawkeye & Hawkguy
Despite Jeremy Renner's Hawkeye contemplating retirement, his recent recovery and confidence in returning for Avengers: Doomsday suggest he'll be back. Hailee Steinfeld's Kate Bishop, seen being approached by Kamala in The Marvels, is likely to join the Avengers as well.
Thor
As one of the last original Avengers, Thor's role in the new team is almost guaranteed. Thor: Love and Thunder sets him up perfectly to defend Earth once more, possibly with his adopted daughter Love by his side. The Thor Corps from the 2015 Secret Wars comic could also play a part in Avengers: Secret Wars.
The Ant-Man Family
Given their connection to Kang in Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, the Ant-Man family, including Ant-Man, Wasp, and Stature, are expected to have significant roles in Avengers: Doomsday. The Quantum Realm's importance in the Multiverse Saga underscores their relevance.
Star-Lord
With Chris Pratt's Star-Lord returning to Earth in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, his involvement in Avengers: Doomsday seems likely. His leadership skills and connection to Earth could see him playing a key role in the team's dynamics.
Black Panther
While Chadwick Boseman's Black Panther was never officially an Avenger, Wakanda's resources and Shuri's new role as Black Panther make their involvement crucial. Winston Duke's M'Baku, as the new monarch, adds another layer to Wakanda's potential contributions to the Avengers.
Who's on your must-have list of Avengers for Phase 6? Who should lead the team? Cast your vote in our poll and let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
AnswerSee ResultsFor more on the future of the MCU, learn how Robert Downey, Jr. can be playing Doctor Doom and brush up on every Marvel movie and series in development.Note - this article was originally published on July 28, 2022 and updated on February 18, 2025 with the latest MCU developments.
