Since the monumental events of Avengers: Endgame, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has seen significant transformations, most notably the absence of a formal Avengers team. As Iron Man and Captain America step back, new heroes are emerging to fill their shoes, though a full Avengers reunion is still on the horizon. The next major assembly of Earth's Mightiest Heroes is set for Phase 6, culminating in Avengers: Doomsday in 2026 and Avengers: Secret Wars in 2027. Here's a look at the likely lineup for this new era of Avengers.
Who Will Be the New Avengers in the MCU?
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Wong
With the departure of Tony Stark and Steve Rogers, Benedict Wong's character, Wong, has become the linchpin of the MCU in Phases 4 and 5. His presence spans across multiple projects, from Spider-Man: No Way Home to Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, and notably, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. His comedic camaraderie with Patty Guggenheim's Madisynn in She-Hulk further cements his role. As the new Sorcerer Supreme, Wong is pivotal in defending the world from emerging threats and will undoubtedly play a crucial role in reuniting the Avengers.
Shang-Chi
Simu Liu's Shang-Chi is almost certainly set to join the Avengers in Phase 6. His summoning by Wong at the end of Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, coupled with Destin Daniel Cretton's involvement in Avengers: The Kang Dynasty, signals big plans for Shang-Chi. With control over the mystical Ten Rings, his role in Avengers: Doomsday will likely be significant, especially given the mysterious origins of these artifacts highlighted in the mid-credits scene.
Doctor Strange
Despite Wong taking over as Sorcerer Supreme, Stephen Strange remains essential to the Avengers. His expertise in magic and the multiverse is invaluable. Currently aiding Charlize Theron's Clea in another universe to address the Incursion issue, Strange's return is anticipated for the battle against Doctor Doom in Avengers: Doomsday.
Captain America
An Avengers team without Captain America is unthinkable. While Chris Evans' Steve Rogers has retired, Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson has taken up the mantle. His journey from reluctance to acceptance in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier continues in Captain America: Brave New World, where he grapples with leadership and the legacy of Steve Rogers. Sam's role in rallying the new Avengers is crucial, despite tensions with Harrison Ford's President Ross over the formation of a government-sanctioned team.
War Machine
Don Cheadle's War Machine is stepping into the spotlight in the Multiverse Saga, starring in Armor Wars. His experience and firepower are vital to the Avengers, especially in filling the void left by Iron Man. While not a genius inventor like Tony, War Machine's military prowess is indispensable.
Ironheart
Dominique Thorne's Riri Williams is poised to become the MCU's new Iron Man. Her debut in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever showcased her intellect and ingenuity, which she will further develop in her upcoming series, Ironheart. By Avengers: Doomsday, Ironheart will be ready to contribute her brainpower and technology to the team.
Spider-Man
Tom Holland's Peter Parker remains a central figure in the MCU, despite opting for a low-profile life. His involvement in Avengers: Doomsday and Secret Wars is crucial, though complicated by the world's forgetfulness of his identity. A theory suggests Wong might still know Spider-Man's secret, potentially facilitating his return to the Avengers.
She-Hulk
While Mark Ruffalo's Hulk may take a backseat, Tatiana Maslany's She-Hulk is stepping up as the new powerhouse. With her legal acumen, superhuman strength, and fourth-wall-breaking charm, She-Hulk is a perfect fit for the Avengers.
The Marvels
Despite the current absence of an Avengers team, Captain Marvel has formed her own trio in The Marvels. Brie Larson's Carol Danvers, Teyonah Parris' Monica Rambeau, and Iman Vellani's Kamala Khan are expected to play significant roles in the upcoming Avengers films. Captain Marvel's leadership potential is unmatched, and Kamala's enthusiasm for superhero teams makes her a likely candidate for the Avengers.
How Many Avengers Is Too Many?
With the potential for a large roster in Avengers: Doomsday, the MCU may follow the comics' tradition of having multiple teams or a rotating cast of heroes to tackle various threats. The original six Avengers have expanded to potentially over twenty, a trend inspired by Jonathan Hickman's expansive Avengers run.
Hawkeye & Hawkguy
Archery skills are a must for the Avengers, and they're fortunate to have both Jeremy Renner's Hawkeye and Hailee Steinfeld's Kate Bishop. Despite Renner's recent recovery from an accident, he's confident about returning in Avengers: Doomsday. Kate, last seen being recruited by Kamala in The Marvels, is sure to follow suit.
Thor
As one of the last original Avengers, Thor's role in the new team is vital. Thor: Love and Thunder's ending positions him perfectly to rejoin the fight, possibly with his adopted daughter Love. The Thor Corps concept from the 2015 Secret Wars comic may also come into play, featuring multiple Thors.
The Ant-Man Family
Given their involvement in the Quantum Realm and Kang's introduction in Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, Scott Lang, Hope Van Dyne, and Cassie Lang are likely to play significant roles in Avengers: Doomsday. The Quantum Realm's importance in the Multiverse Saga suggests their continued involvement.
Star-Lord
With Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 leaving Chris Pratt's Star-Lord on Earth, his participation in Avengers: Doomsday seems probable. His return to Earth coincides with the buildup to the Avengers crossover, raising questions about his willingness to follow a new leader or take charge himself.
Black Panther
While Chadwick Boseman's Black Panther was a vital ally, Letitia Wright's Shuri now dons the suit. Wakanda's resources and technology remain crucial for the Avengers, and Shuri's role, alongside Winston Duke's M'Baku as the new monarch, will be pivotal in Avengers: Doomsday.
Who's on your must-have list of Avengers for Phase 6? Who should lead the team? Cast your vote in our poll and let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
AnswerSee ResultsFor more on the future of the MCU, learn how Robert Downey, Jr. can be playing Doctor Doom and brush up on every Marvel movie and series in development.Note - this article was originally published on July 28, 2022 and updated on February 18, 2025 with the latest MCU developments.
