Chris Evans Confirms No Return to MCU for Avengers

Chris Evans, renowned for portraying Captain America in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), has firmly dismissed rumors of his return in "Avengers: Doomsday" or any other MCU film. In an interview with Esquire, Evans debunked a report by Deadline that suggested he would reprise his role alongside Robert Downey Jr., who has been confirmed to return. Evans stated, "That's not true, though. This always happens. I mean, it happens every couple years, ever since Endgame. I've just stopped responding to it. Yeah, no. Happily retired."

The speculation about Evans' return was fueled by comments from Anthony Mackie, who succeeded Evans as Captain America after the events of "Avengers: Endgame." Mackie mentioned to Esquire that he had not seen a script for the upcoming film but was informed by his manager that Evans might return. However, Mackie directly addressed the issue with Evans, who confirmed his retirement, stating, "I talked to Chris a few weeks ago and it wasn’t on the table then... He goes, ‘Oh, you know, I’m happily retired'."

Despite his MCU retirement, Evans did make a cameo as Johnny Storm in "Deadpool & Wolverine," a more comedic role compared to his iconic Captain America portrayal. Meanwhile, the MCU faces uncertainties following the departure of Jonathan Majors, who played Kang and was set to be the franchise's next major antagonist similar to Thanos. Majors' exit after being found guilty of assault and harassment has left Marvel scrambling, leading to the announcement that Doctor Doom, to be played by Robert Downey Jr., will take over as the new big bad.

Downey Jr.'s return as Doctor Doom sparked speculation about other original Avengers coming back, though no other returns have been officially confirmed. Amidst these developments, Benedict Cumberbatch, who plays Doctor Strange, confirmed he will not appear in "Avengers: Doomsday" but will have a "central role" in its sequel, "Avengers: Secret Wars." The film will be directed by the Russo Brothers and is expected to further explore the multiverse, with Hayley Atwell's Agent Carter also set to appear.