Dr. Strange Skips Avengers Doomsday, Stars in 'Central' Secret Wars Role

Benedict Cumberbatch revealed Doctor Strange's absence from Avengers: Doomsday, but confirmed a pivotal role in its sequel, Avengers: Secret Wars. In a conversation with Variety, Cumberbatch initially let slip a spoiler, exclaiming "f*** it" before elaborating. He stated that Strange will be "quite central" to the narrative's progression, hinting at a third solo Doctor Strange film in the works.

Cumberbatch expressed enthusiasm for the future of the character, stating Marvel is open to exploring various directions for the character's evolution. He highlighted the inherent richness and complexity of Doctor Strange, emphasizing the character's internal conflicts and extraordinary abilities as fertile ground for storytelling.

Marvel Cinematic Universe: Upcoming Projects

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Regarding Strange's omission from Avengers: Doomsday, Cumberbatch explained the decision stemmed from a narrative mismatch. The upcoming film, directed by the Russo Brothers, will feature Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom and reportedly Chris Evans, continuing the multiverse storyline and potentially including Hayley Atwell's Agent Carter.

Phase 6 of the MCU begins with Fantastic Four: First Steps this July. Avengers: Doomsday is slated for May 1, 2026, followed by Avengers: Secret Wars on May 7, 2027.