Since the monumental events of Avengers: Endgame, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has undergone significant changes, most notably the absence of a formal Avengers team. As new heroes step up to fill the void left by Iron Man and Captain America, fans eagerly await the next Avengers assembly. While Captain America: Brave New World hints at a potential reunion, it's not until the end of Phase 6 that we'll witness the full return of Earth's Mightiest Heroes with Avengers: Doomsday in 2026 and Avengers: Secret Wars in 2027. Here's a look at the characters expected to join this new Avengers lineup.
Who Will Be the New Avengers in the MCU?
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Wong
In the wake of Tony Stark and Steve Rogers' departure, Benedict Wong's character, Wong, has become the pivotal figure holding the MCU together in Phases 4 and 5. His presence in projects like Spider-Man: No Way Home, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness showcases his importance. His friendship with Patty Guggenheim's Madisynn in She-Hulk adds a delightful touch to his character. As the new Sorcerer Supreme, Wong is tasked with defending the world against emerging threats, making him a natural leader when the Avengers reconvene.
Shang-Chi
Simu Liu's Shang-Chi is set to join the Avengers in Phase 6, following his summoning by Wong in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. The involvement of Destin Daniel Cretton, originally slated to direct Avengers: The Kang Dynasty, suggests big plans for Shang-Chi. His mastery over the mystical Ten Rings positions him as a crucial asset, especially with the deeper mystery surrounding these artifacts teased in the mid-credits scene of his movie.
Despite Wong's ascent to Sorcerer Supreme, Stephen Strange remains a vital part of the Avengers. His expertise in magic and the multiverse is invaluable. Currently aiding Charlize Theron's Clea in another universe to address the Incursion problem, Strange's return is anticipated for Avengers: Doomsday, where he'll face off against Robert Downey, Jr.'s Doctor Doom.
Captain America
An Avengers team isn't complete without Captain America. With Chris Evans' Steve Rogers retired, Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson has taken up the mantle in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier and will further evolve in Captain America: Brave New World. Sam's journey to becoming a leader is crucial, especially as Harrison Ford's President Ross proposes forming a new, government-sanctioned Avengers team. Sam's struggle to live up to Steve's legacy will be a focal point in Doomsday and Secret Wars.
Don Cheadle's War Machine is stepping into a more prominent role in the Multiverse Saga, starring in the upcoming Armor Wars movie. His experience and firepower make him a natural fit to fill the void left by Iron Man. While not an inventor like Tony, War Machine's military background and combat skills are invaluable to the Avengers.
Ironheart
Dominique Thorne's Riri Williams, aka Ironheart, is poised to become the MCU's new Iron Man. Introduced in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Riri will further establish herself in her upcoming series, Ironheart. By Avengers: Doomsday, she'll be ready to join the team, bringing her intellect and innovative tech to combat threats like Doctor Doom.
Spider-Man
Tom Holland's Peter Parker remains a central figure in the MCU, despite his choice to return to being a Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man. His role in Doomsday and Secret Wars seems assured, though the complication of the world forgetting his identity adds intrigue. There's speculation that Wong might still know Spider-Man's secret, providing a way for Peter to rejoin the Avengers.
She-Hulk
While Mark Ruffalo's Hulk takes a more supportive role, Tatiana Maslany's She-Hulk is set to become the new powerhouse on the team. With her legal acumen, superhuman strength, and fourth-wall-breaking charm, She-Hulk is a perfect addition to the Avengers.
Though the Avengers are currently disbanded, Captain Marvel's team in The Marvels suggests a strong lineup for the future. Brie Larson's Carol Danvers, Teyonah Parris' Monica Rambeau, and Iman Vellani's Kamala Khan are expected to play significant roles in Doomsday and Secret Wars. Captain Marvel's leadership qualities make her a strong candidate to lead the new Avengers, while Kamala's enthusiasm for superhero teams hints at her potential involvement.
How Many Avengers Is Too Many?
As the roster of Earth's Mightiest Heroes grows, the question arises: can the new movies handle a cast of 20 or more heroes? The MCU can draw inspiration from the comics, where large teams and multiple squads coexist. This approach could lead to a dynamic and versatile Avengers lineup.
Hawkeye & Hawkguy
With the need for skilled archers, Jeremy Renner's Hawkeye and Hailee Steinfeld's Kate Bishop are likely candidates for the new Avengers. Despite Renner's recent recovery from an accident, he's confident about returning for Avengers: Doomsday. Kate's connection to Kamala Khan further solidifies her place in the team.
Thor
As one of the last original Avengers, Thor, played by Chris Hemsworth, is a vital link to the team's legacy. Thor: Love and Thunder sets him up for a return, possibly with his adopted daughter Love. In Avengers: Secret Wars, Thor could join the Thor Corps, adding an intriguing twist to his role.
Following Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania's introduction of Jonathan Majors' Kang, the Ant-Man family remains crucial to the Multiverse Saga. The Quantum Realm's significance in the Avengers' past and future battles underscores their importance. It's time for Wasp and Stature to join Ant-Man in the Avengers.
While the Guardians of the Galaxy's involvement in the next Avengers movies is uncertain, Chris Pratt's Star-Lord is likely to play a role in Avengers: Doomsday. His return to Earth at the end of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 aligns with the buildup to the Avengers crossover. Whether he'll follow another leader or take charge remains to be seen.
Though Chadwick Boseman's Black Panther was never officially an Avenger, his contributions were significant. Now, with Letitia Wright's Shuri donning the suit, Wakanda's resources and technology remain vital to the team. Winston Duke's M'Baku, as the new monarch, adds another layer to Wakanda's involvement in the Avengers' future.
Note - this article was originally published on July 28, 2022 and updated on February 18, 2025 with the latest MCU developments.
