In a move that's electrifying Marvel fans everywhere, Robert Downey Jr. is making a highly anticipated return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). The news has sparked immense excitement, especially as it involves several beloved characters making a comeback. Here’s a look at some notable actors rejoining the MCU and what we can expect from their return.
Robert Downey Jr.
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After a five-year hiatus, Robert Downey Jr. is set to re-enter the Marvel universe, though not as the iconic Iron Man who launched the MCU. Downey will be taking on the role of Dr. Victor Von Doom, a formidable villain from the Marvel comics. He is slated to appear in “Avengers: Doomsday,” which is scheduled for release in May 2026, followed by a sequel titled “Secret Wars” a year later. This revelation was made during the Comic-Con event in San Diego, and fans are eagerly anticipating how Downey will bring this complex character to life.
Hugh Jackman
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Hugh Jackman, who gave an emotional farewell to his Wolverine role in the 2017 film “Logan,” is making an unexpected comeback. Despite his previous statements about retiring the claws, Jackman will reprise his Wolverine character in the upcoming film “Deadpool & Wolverine.” Jackman expressed his initial reluctance but admitted that the idea of pairing Wolverine with Deadpool had been on his mind ever since he saw “Deadpool” and knew it was something fans had been clamoring for. In an interview with Fandango, Jackman shared his excitement about the reunion and the opportunity to bring these two characters together.
Chris Evans
Chris Evans, who concluded his role as Captain America in “Avengers: Endgame,” might be making a return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Reports suggest that Evans has signed on for “Avengers: Secret Wars.” Although his character, Steve Rogers, had a definitive ending in "Endgame," there is speculation that Evans might appear in a brief cameo as an older Steve Rogers rather than returning in his full Captain America role. This potential appearance has sparked considerable buzz among fans eager to see how Evans' character will be integrated into the new storyline.
Wesley Snipes
Wesley Snipes is poised to reprise his role as Blade in “Deadpool & Wolverine.” Snipes originally portrayed the vampire hunter in the 1998 film “Blade” and returned for “Blade II” (2002) and “Blade: Trinity” (2004). Despite initially believing that his return was unlikely due to Marvel’s casting of Mahershala Ali for the upcoming Blade iteration, Snipes was convinced to reprise his role after a call from Ryan Reynolds, the star of “Deadpool.” Snipes mentioned to Entertainment Weekly that Reynolds’ enthusiasm and the potential for a great story were key factors in his decision to come back.
Scarlett Johansson
Scarlett Johansson, renowned for her role as Black Widow in the Marvel films, is involved in a top-secret Marvel project. Details about this project remain under wraps, and it’s unclear whether it will be a live-action movie, a TV series, or even an animated venture. Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige confirmed in an interview with ET that there is indeed a project in the works with Johansson. Johansson herself hinted at this mystery project in a 2023 interview with ComicBook, mentioning that it is still in development. There is speculation that this could potentially be a standalone series centered on Black Widow.
These exciting developments highlight a wave of familiar faces returning to the MCU, bringing fresh stories and new dynamics to the beloved franchise. Fans are eagerly awaiting more details as these projects come to fruition.
Also read: Deadpool & Wolverine Review: Marvel's Fun Yet Violent Adventure