Chris Evans is making a comeback to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), reprising his role for the highly anticipated Avengers: Doomsday, set to release on May 1, 2026.
Evans, who retired his iconic portrayal of Steve Rogers/Captain America in Avengers: Endgame (2019), will be directed once again by the Russo brothers, his longtime collaborators who helmed four of his previous Marvel films. Adding to the excitement, Robert Downey Jr., known for his portrayal of Iron Man, will return to the MCU — this time in a surprising new role as Doctor Doom.
Evans’ Marvel Legacy
Chris Evans first joined the MCU in Captain America: The First Avenger (2011), establishing Steve Rogers as a cornerstone of the franchise. He went on to appear in The Avengers (2012), Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014), Captain America: Civil War (2016), and the blockbuster Avengers saga, including Infinity War (2018) and Endgame (2019). His character’s story arc concluded with Rogers traveling to the past to live out his days with Peggy Carter (Hayley Atwell) before passing the Captain America shield to Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie).
Beyond the MCU, Evans recently reprised his earlier role as Johnny Storm/The Human Torch in Deadpool & Wolverine, bringing back his Fantastic Four character from the 2000s Fox franchise. This appearance reintroduced Evans to Marvel fans and hinted at the potential for a multiverse storyline that Avengers: Doomsday is expected to explore.
What Role Will Evans Play?
Marvel has not confirmed whether Evans will return as Steve Rogers/Captain America, Johnny Storm, or another role entirely. Avengers: Doomsday will reportedly delve deep into the multiverse, allowing for crossover appearances from actors and characters across the MCU and beyond, including connections to the upcoming Fantastic Four reboot.
The MCU’s multiverse concept has already opened the door for fan-favorite returns and unexpected plot twists, leaving audiences eager to see how Evans will fit into the evolving narrative.
Evans’ Thoughts on Returning
In a 2023 interview with GQ, Evans expressed openness to returning to the MCU but emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of the franchise. “I wouldn’t want the black eye if it felt like a cash grab or if it didn’t live up to expectations,” he said. “It has to feel connected to that original thing.”
Evans has long been a fan-favorite, and his farewell tweet after wrapping Endgame in 2018 reflected his gratitude: “Playing this role over the last 8 years has been an honor. To everyone in front of the camera, behind the camera, and in the audience, thank you for the memories! Eternally grateful.”
What We Know About Avengers: Doomsday
Directed by the Russo brothers, Avengers: Doomsday promises to be a pivotal film in Marvel’s next phase. With the return of major stars like Evans and Downey Jr., the film will likely serve as a bridge between Marvel’s past and future, uniting characters from previous films with newer additions.
As the MCU continues to expand its multiverse storyline, fans can expect epic battles, surprising alliances, and emotional callbacks to some of Marvel’s most beloved moments. Whether Evans reprises his role as Captain America, Johnny Storm, or something entirely unexpected, his return marks a significant milestone for the franchise.
Get Ready for 2026
With Avengers: Doomsday on the horizon, Marvel fans are gearing up for what promises to be one of the most ambitious entries in the MCU. Chris Evans’ return ensures that the film will carry the emotional weight and star power that has defined Marvel’s biggest successes.
Stay tuned for updates on casting, plot developments, and more as Marvel continues to shape the future of its cinematic universe.
, reprising his role for the highly anticipated Avengers: Doomsday, set to release on May 1, 2026.){kind=link}