Since the monumental events of Avengers: Endgame, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has undergone significant changes, notably the absence of a formal Avengers team. As fans eagerly await the return of Earth's Mightiest Heroes, new characters have emerged to fill the void left by iconic figures like Iron Man and Captain America. The next official Avengers reunion won't occur until the conclusion of Phase 6, with the release of Avengers: Doomsday in 2026 and Avengers: Secret Wars in 2027. Here's a look at the heroes likely to assemble for these epic showdowns.
Who Will Be the New Avengers in the MCU?
15 Images
Wong
In the wake of Tony Stark and Steve Rogers' departures, Benedict Wong's character, Wong, has become the linchpin of the MCU in Phases 4 and 5. His presence spans multiple projects, including Spider-Man: No Way Home, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. His comedic rapport with Patty Guggenheim's Madisynn in She-Hulk adds a light-hearted touch to his otherwise serious role. As the new Sorcerer Supreme, Wong is poised to rally the Avengers when the time comes, given his role in defending the world from emerging threats.
Shang-Chi
Simu Liu's Shang-Chi is set to join the Avengers in Phase 6, especially after being summoned by Wong at the end of Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. His control over the mystical Ten Rings and the mysteries hinted at in the mid-credits scene of his film suggest a significant role in Avengers: Doomsday.
Doctor Strange
Despite Wong's ascension to Sorcerer Supreme, Stephen Strange remains a crucial figure for the Avengers. His expertise in magic and the multiverse will be invaluable, even as he assists Charlize Theron's Clea in another universe to address the Incursion problem. His role in the upcoming battle against Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom is highly anticipated.
Captain America
No Avengers team feels complete without a Captain America. With Chris Evans' Steve Rogers retired, Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson has taken up the mantle. His journey from The Falcon and the Winter Soldier to Captain America: Brave New World showcases his evolution into a leader. By the end of Brave New World, Sam is ready to rally the Avengers, despite tensions with Harrison Ford's President Ross.
War Machine
Don Cheadle's War Machine is stepping into the spotlight in the Multiverse Saga, particularly with the upcoming Armor Wars movie. As a seasoned soldier, he's poised to fill the void left by Iron Man, bringing his unique firepower to the team.
Ironheart
Dominique Thorne's Riri Williams, aka Ironheart, is set to become the MCU's new Iron Man. After her debut in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, her solo series will solidify her status as a hero. Her intellect and inventions will be crucial in facing formidable villains like Doctor Doom.
Spider-Man
Tom Holland's Peter Parker remains a pivotal MCU hero, even as he embraces his role as a Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man. Despite the world forgetting his identity, Wong might be the key to reconnecting him with the Avengers, given his last interaction with Doctor Strange.
She-Hulk
While Mark Ruffalo's Hulk takes a backseat, Tatiana Maslany's She-Hulk emerges as the powerhouse the Avengers need. Her blend of legal acumen, super strength, and fourth-wall-breaking humor makes her an ideal candidate for the team.
The Marvels
The trio from The Marvels—Brie Larson's Carol Danvers, Teyonah Parris' Monica Rambeau, and Iman Vellani's Kamala Khan—are expected to join the Avengers. Captain Marvel's leadership qualities make her a strong candidate to lead the team, while Kamala's enthusiasm for assembling the Young Avengers hints at her broader involvement.
How Many Avengers Is Too Many?
The potential roster for Avengers: Doomsday could be expansive, echoing the large-scale teams seen in Jonathan Hickman's Avengers comics. The MCU might explore multiple Avengers teams, similar to the New York and West Coast Avengers in the comics.
Hawkeye & Hawkguy
With Jeremy Renner's Hawkeye potentially returning after his recovery, and Hailee Steinfeld's Kate Bishop being approached by Kamala, the Avengers will have no shortage of skilled archers.
Thor
As one of the last original Avengers still active, Chris Hemsworth's Thor is set to join the new team, possibly bringing his adopted daughter Love along. The Thor Corps from the comics could play a role in Avengers: Secret Wars.
The Ant-Man Family
Following their involvement in Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, the Ant-Man family—including Ant-Man, Wasp, and Stature—will likely play key roles in the Multiverse Saga, especially with the Quantum Realm's importance.
Star-Lord
Chris Pratt's Star-Lord, now back on Earth after Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, is poised to join the Avengers as they face new threats. His leadership skills will be tested as he navigates his role within the team.
Black Panther
Letitia Wright's Shuri, now wearing the Black Panther suit, will continue Wakanda's support for the Avengers. With Winston Duke's M'Baku as the new monarch, Wakanda's role in the fight against villains like Doctor Doom remains crucial.
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.