Chris Evans, renowned for his role as Captain America in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), has firmly stated that he will not be returning to the MCU for the upcoming film "Avengers: Doomsday" or any other projects. This clarification came in response to a report from Deadline suggesting that Evans would reprise his role alongside Robert Downey Jr., another original Avenger. Speaking to Esquire, Evans debunked the rumors, stating, "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 confusion arose partly due to comments from Anthony Mackie, who succeeded Evans as Captain America after the character's retirement in "Avengers: Endgame." Mackie mentioned to Esquire that his manager had informed him of Evans' potential return, but a direct conversation with Evans himself cleared up the speculation. Mackie recounted, "I talked to Chris a few weeks ago and it wasn’t on the table then. At least, he didn’t tell me it was on the table, because I asked him. I was like, ‘You know, they said they’re bringing everyone back for the movie. Are you coming back?’ He goes, ‘Oh, you know, I’m happily retired'."
While Evans has stepped away from his iconic role, he did make a cameo in the MCU as Johnny Storm in "Deadpool & Wolverine," a lighter, more comedic role compared to his tenure as Captain America.
The MCU is currently navigating some uncertainty following the dismissal of actor Jonathan Majors, who portrayed Kang, a character poised to become the franchise's next major antagonist. Majors' exit after being found guilty of assault and harassment has left Marvel in a state of flux. In response, Marvel has announced that Doctor Doom will step in as the new central villain, to be played by Robert Downey Jr., sparking speculation about the return of other original Avengers. However, no such returns have been officially confirmed.
In other MCU developments, Benedict Cumberbatch, who portrays Doctor Strange, has confirmed that his character will not appear in "Avengers: Doomsday" but will have a "central role" in its sequel, "Avengers: Secret Wars." The Russo Brothers, former directors of the Avengers films, are set to helm this sequel, which will reportedly delve further into multiverse themes, with Hayley Atwell's Agent Carter also expected to make an appearance.
