Chris Evans Says He Isn't Returning to the Marvel Cinematic Universe for Another Avengers

Chris Evans Confirms No Return to MCU as Captain America

Chris Evans, renowned for his role as Captain America in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), has firmly denied rumors of his return to the franchise in the upcoming film Avengers: Doomsday or any other future projects. This clarification comes in response to a report by Deadline, which suggested that Evans would be reprising his role alongside Robert Downey Jr., another original Avenger. However, Evans debunked these claims during an interview with Esquire, stating succinctly, "That's not true, though... Yeah, no. Happily retired."

The speculation about Evans' return was fueled further when Anthony Mackie, who succeeded Evans as Captain America in Avengers: Endgame, mentioned to Esquire that his manager had informed him of Evans' potential comeback. Yet, Mackie later clarified that he had directly asked Evans about these rumors just weeks before, and Evans confirmed he was "happily retired" and not planning a return.

While Evans has stepped away from his iconic role as Captain America, he did make a brief return to the MCU universe in a more humorous capacity, playing his former Fox character Johnny Storm in Deadpool & Wolverine. This cameo, however, is a far cry from his central role in the MCU's main storyline.

MCU's Future Amidst Changes

The MCU is navigating through a period of uncertainty following the dismissal of Jonathan Majors, who portrayed Kang the Conqueror. Majors was set to be the franchise's next major antagonist akin to Thanos, but his conviction for assault and harassment led to his removal from the MCU. This has prompted a significant shift in Marvel's plans, with the announcement that Doctor Doom, portrayed by Robert Downey Jr., will now take on the role of the central villain.

The introduction of Doctor Doom has sparked discussions about potential returns of other original Avengers, though no official confirmations have been made beyond Downey Jr.'s involvement. Meanwhile, Benedict Cumberbatch, who plays Doctor Strange, has confirmed that his character will not appear in Avengers: Doomsday but will have a pivotal role in its sequel, Avengers: Secret Wars.

The directorial duo, the Russo Brothers, are set to helm Avengers: Secret Wars, continuing the exploration of the multiverse narrative. Reports also suggest that Hayley Atwell's Agent Carter will feature in the film, adding another layer to the MCU's expansive universe.