Chris Evans Confirms No Return to MCU as Captain America

Chris Evans, the star who brought Captain America to life in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), has firmly stated that he will not be returning to reprise his role in the upcoming film Avengers: Doomsday or any other MCU projects. This clarification comes in response to a report by Deadline, which suggested that Evans would join forces with Robert Downey Jr., another original Avenger, for the film. Speaking to Esquire, Evans debunked these rumors, stating, "That's not true, though. This always happens. I mean, it happens every couple of years, ever since Endgame. I've just stopped responding to it. Yeah, no. Happily retired."

The confusion arose after Anthony Mackie, who succeeded Evans as Captain America following Avengers: Endgame, mentioned in the same Esquire interview that his manager had informed him of Evans' potential return. However, Mackie later clarified his conversation with Evans, saying, "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 the MCU as Captain America, he did make a brief return to the Marvel universe in a different role, playing Johnny Storm in Deadpool & Wolverine. This appearance, however, was more of a comedic cameo and not a continuation of his Captain America storyline.

MCU's Current State and Future Plans

The MCU is currently navigating a transitional phase, particularly following the departure of Jonathan Majors, who played Kang the Conqueror. Majors was set to be the franchise's next major antagonist, akin to Thanos, but was removed from the MCU after being found guilty of assault and harassment. In response, Marvel has announced that Doctor Doom, portrayed by Robert Downey Jr., will take over as the new central villain.

This shift has sparked speculation about the return of other original Avengers, though no official confirmations have been made beyond Downey Jr.'s involvement. Meanwhile, Benedict Cumberbatch, who plays Doctor Strange, has confirmed that his character will not appear in Avengers: Doomsday but will have a "central role" in the sequel, Avengers: Secret Wars. The Russo Brothers, known for directing previous Avengers films, are set to helm Secret Wars, which will continue to explore the multiverse narrative, with Hayley Atwell's Agent Carter also expected to feature.