Chris Evans Confirms No Return to MCU for Avengers

Chris Evans, known for his role as Captain America, has firmly denied any plans to return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) in "Avengers: Doomsday" or any other upcoming films, dispelling rumors that had circulated widely. In a candid interview with Esquire, Evans refuted a report by Deadline, which suggested that he would be rejoining the franchise alongside Robert Downey Jr., another original Avenger. Evans clarified, "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 after Anthony Mackie, who assumed the Captain America role following Evans' departure after "Avengers: Endgame," mentioned to Esquire that he had been informed by his manager about Evans' potential return. However, Mackie later spoke directly with Evans, who confirmed that he was not considering a comeback. 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'."

Although Evans has stepped away from his iconic MCU role, he did make a brief return to the superhero genre by reprising his former Fox character, Johnny Storm, in "Deadpool & Wolverine." This appearance, however, was more of a light-hearted cameo compared to his substantial involvement in the MCU as Captain America.

The MCU has faced its own set of challenges recently, particularly with the departure of Jonathan Majors, who was set to play the central antagonist, Kang, following his conviction for assault and harassment. Majors' exit left a significant gap in Marvel's storyline, which was intended to position him as the next major villain akin to Thanos. In response, Marvel announced that Doctor Doom would take on the role of the new big bad, to be portrayed by Robert Downey Jr. This development fueled speculation about the return of other original Avengers, though no such plans have been officially confirmed.

Amidst these changes, Benedict Cumberbatch, who plays Doctor Strange, confirmed that his character would not appear in "Avengers: Doomsday" but would have a "central role" in the subsequent film, "Avengers: Secret Wars." The Russo Brothers, known for directing previous Avengers films, are set to helm "Avengers: Secret Wars," which is expected to further explore the multiverse narrative with Hayley Atwell's Agent Carter also slated to appear.