Marvel Unveils New Avengers Roster in Epic Crossover

The MCU has undergone significant changes since Avengers: Endgame, most notably the absence of an active Avengers team. While new heroes are emerging to fill the void left by Iron Man and Captain America, a full-fledged Avengers movie remains some time away. Even Captain America: Brave New World avoids a complete reunion of Earth's Mightiest Heroes.

A proper Avengers team-up is only slated for the end of Phase 6, with the back-to-back releases of Avengers: Doomsday (2026) and Avengers: Secret Wars (2027). But who will answer the call? Let's examine the likely candidates for Phase 6's new Avengers roster.

The Next Generation of Avengers

Wong: Following the departure of Tony Stark and Steve Rogers, Benedict Wong's Wong has become a pivotal figure, uniting the MCU across Phases 4 and 5. His appearances in numerous films solidify his role as a key player, particularly given his ascension to Sorcerer Supreme. Wong's proactive approach to global threats makes him a crucial asset for any future Avengers assembly. We've arguably entered the "Phase Wong" of the MCU.

Shang-Chi: Simu Liu's Shang-Chi is a near-certainty for the Phase 6 Avengers. His summoning by Wong in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, coupled with Destin Daniel Cretton's initial involvement with Avengers: The Kang Dynasty, points towards significant future plans for the character. His mastery of the Ten Rings adds considerable power to any team. The mid-credits scene in Shang-Chi hints at a larger mystery connected to these artifacts, potentially impacting Avengers: Doomsday.

Doctor Strange: While Wong is Sorcerer Supreme, Stephen Strange's expertise in magic and the multiverse remains invaluable to the Avengers. His current involvement in another universe addressing incursions with Clea suggests a significant role in the future. The tease in Multiverse of Madness likely foreshadows his participation in the fight against Doctor Doom.

Captain America (Sam Wilson): The Avengers need a Captain America. Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson has taken up the mantle, and Captain America: Brave New World will likely solidify his leadership capabilities and readiness to assemble a new team. His journey to become a leader will likely be explored in Doomsday and Secret Wars.

War Machine: Don Cheadle's War Machine is poised for a more prominent role. Armor Wars, focusing on Rhodey's efforts to secure Tony Stark's technology, builds upon Secret Invasion. His experience and firepower make him a natural fit for the Avengers.

Ironheart: Dominique Thorne's Riri Williams is a strong contender to become the MCU's new Iron Man. Her debut in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever and her upcoming solo series, Ironheart, establish her as a formidable hero with both technological prowess and intellect.

Spider-Man: Tom Holland's Spider-Man remains a flagship hero, despite his decision to remain anonymous. His involvement in Doomsday and Secret Wars is highly likely, barring any further conflicts between Marvel Studios and Sony. The mystery surrounding his forgotten identity adds intrigue.

She-Hulk: While the Hulk may have a supporting role, Tatiana Maslany's She-Hulk is a strong candidate. Her intelligence, strength, and humorous personality make her a perfect fit for the Avengers.

The Marvels: Brie Larson's Captain Marvel, Teyonah Parris' Monica Rambeau, and Iman Vellani's Kamala Khan, having formed a team in The Marvels, are all likely to play significant roles in the upcoming Avengers films. Captain Marvel's leadership potential and the mystery surrounding Monica's abilities suggest key roles.

Hawkeye & Kate Bishop: While Jeremy Renner's Hawkeye may be retired, his potential return is hinted at. Hailee Steinfeld's Kate Bishop, having been contacted by Kamala Khan, is also a likely addition.

Thor: As one of the few remaining original Avengers, Thor's continued involvement is expected. Thor: Love and Thunder positions him perfectly for future conflicts. The Secret Wars storyline may introduce multiple Thors.

The Ant-Man Family: Given Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania's introduction of Kang, Ant-Man, Wasp, and Stature are likely to remain important players. The Quantum Realm's significance suggests their continued involvement.

Star-Lord: Chris Pratt's Star-Lord's return to Earth at the end of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 suggests a potential role in the Avengers' future conflicts.

Black Panther (Shuri): Shuri's role as the new Black Panther and Wakanda's resources make her a valuable asset to the Avengers.

Leadership and Roster Size

The potential Avengers roster for Phase 6 is extensive. The comics have featured large teams, often with smaller groups tackling individual threats or multiple co-existing teams. The MCU might adopt a similar approach.

Who Should Lead? The question of leadership is crucial. Captain America, Captain Marvel, Wong, Black Panther, Thor, and Star-Lord are all strong contenders.

[Poll: Who should lead the new Avengers team?]

For more on the MCU's future, explore the potential of Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom and review the upcoming Marvel projects.

Note: This article was originally published on July 28, 2022, and updated on February 18, 2025.