Chris Evans Rules Out Marvel Cinematic Universe Comeback

Actor Chris Evans, known for his role as Captain America, has clarified that he will not be returning to the Marvel Cinematic Universe for "Avengers: Doomsday" or any future films, despite recent rumors suggesting otherwise.

In an interview with Esquire, Evans directly refuted a Deadline report that claimed he would reprise his role alongside fellow original Avenger Robert Downey Jr., labeling the information as "not accurate."

The speculation originally gained traction after Anthony Mackie—who inherited the Captain America mantle following Evans' retirement from the MCU in "Avengers: Endgame"—told Esquire that although he hadn't yet seen a script for the upcoming film, his management informed him Evans would be involved.

Mackie later stated, however, that Evans himself contradicted those claims. "I spoke with Chris a few weeks ago, and the idea wasn't even under discussion," Mackie said. "At least, he didn't mention it—because I asked him directly. I said, ‘They're saying everyone is returning for this movie. Are you coming back?’ And he responded, ‘Oh, you know—I'm happily retired.’"

When Esquire approached Evans with these conflicting accounts, he quickly dismissed the rumor. "That report is not correct," he emphasized. "This kind of speculation comes up every couple of years since 'Endgame.' I've stopped addressing it. So no, absolutely not. I'm content being retired."

It’s worth noting that Evans did make a brief return to the Marvel universe, reprising his earlier Fox role as Johnny Storm in "Deadpool & Wolverine." However, this was a lighthearted cameo, far from the central role he once held as Captain America.

The future of the MCU has faced uncertainties, especially following Jonathan Majors' removal from the franchise after his assault and harassment convictions. Majors, who played Kang across multiple projects, had been positioned as the next major antagonist—akin to Thanos—but his departure left Marvel in a challenging position.

Subsequently, Marvel announced that Doctor Doom will serve as the next primary villain, with Robert Downey Jr. cast in the role. This move fueled theories about the return of other original Avengers, though no official confirmations have followed.

Meanwhile, Benedict Cumberbatch, who portrays Doctor Strange, confirmed that his character will not appear in "Avengers: Doomsday" but will play a "central part" in its sequel, "Avengers: Secret Wars." The film, directed by the Russo Brothers, is expected to expand on multiverse storylines, with reports also hinting at the return of Hayley Atwell’s Agent Carter.