Marvel Hero Confirms Exit from Avengers Franchise

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 return alongside Robert Downey Jr., calling it "not true" in an interview with Esquire.

This contradicts information shared by Anthony Mackie, the current Captain America. Mackie, while admitting he hasn't seen a script for Avengers: Doomsday, relayed that his manager informed him of Evans's return. However, Mackie subsequently spoke with Evans, who confirmed his retirement from the MCU remains firm. Evans himself reiterated this to Esquire, stating he is "happily retired" and that such rumors resurface periodically since Avengers: Endgame.

While Evans has stepped back from his primary MCU role, he did make a cameo appearance as Johnny Storm (Human Torch) in Deadpool & Wolverine, a comedic role significantly different from his Captain America portrayal.

The MCU's future is currently somewhat uncertain following the removal of Jonathan Majors from the franchise due to assault and harassment charges. Majors, who was set to be the MCU's next major villain, Kang the Conqueror, has been replaced, leading to speculation and the announcement of Doctor Doom (played by Robert Downey Jr.) as the new antagonist. This fueled rumors of other original Avengers returning, although nothing concrete has been confirmed.

Benedict Cumberbatch, who portrays Doctor Strange, confirmed his absence from Avengers: Doomsday but indicated 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.