Since the monumental events of Avengers: Endgame, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has undergone significant transformations, with the notable absence of a formal Avengers team. As fans eagerly await the return of Earth's Mightiest Heroes, new heroes have stepped up to fill the void left by the iconic Iron Man and Captain America. While we won't see a full Avengers reunion until the end of Phase 6 with Avengers: Doomsday in 2026 and Avengers: Secret Wars in 2027, the anticipation for these films is palpable. Here's a look at the heroes expected to assemble in Phase 6.
Who Will Be the New Avengers in the MCU?
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Wong
With Tony Stark and Steve Rogers no longer leading the charge, Benedict Wong's character, Wong, has become the pivotal figure holding the MCU together through Phases 4 and 5. From his appearances in Spider-Man: No Way Home to Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, Wong has been a constant presence. His friendship with Patty Guggenheim's Madisynn in She-Hulk added a humorous touch to his character. As the new Sorcerer Supreme, Wong is at the forefront of defending the world against new threats, and he's poised to rally the Avengers when the time comes.
Shang-Chi
Simu Liu's Shang-Chi is almost certain 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 initial involvement with Avengers: The Kang Dynasty, hints at a significant role for Shang-Chi. Now wielding the mystical Ten Rings, Shang-Chi's involvement in the Avengers' future is vital, especially with the deeper mystery surrounding these artifacts teased in the mid-credits scene.
Despite Wong taking the mantle of Sorcerer Supreme, Stephen Strange remains a crucial part of the Avengers in Phase 6. His experience with magic and the multiverse is invaluable. Currently assisting Charlize Theron's Clea with the Incursion problem in another universe, Doctor Strange's role will be pivotal when the Avengers face Robert Downey, Jr.'s Doctor Doom in Doomsday.
Captain America
No Avengers team feels complete without Captain America. With Chris Evans' Steve Rogers retiring, Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson has taken up the shield. After his journey in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, Sam's evolution continues in Captain America: Brave New World. Sam's instrumental role in assembling the new Avengers is highlighted by his interactions with Harrison Ford's President Ross, who pitches the idea of a government-sanctioned team. Despite their eventual falling-out, Sam emerges ready to lead the Avengers, striving to live up to Steve's legacy.
Don Cheadle's War Machine is set to step into a more prominent role in the Multiverse Saga, starring in the upcoming Armor Wars movie. Following the revelation of his Skrull impostor in Secret Invasion, Rhodey's journey to prevent Tony Stark's tech from falling into the wrong hands positions him as a key member of the new Avengers, filling the void left by Iron Man.
Ironheart
Dominique Thorne's Riri Williams is poised to become the MCU's new Iron Man. After her debut in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Riri's own series, Ironheart, will showcase her growth into a fully established hero. Her intelligence and innovative armor will be essential for the Avengers when facing formidable foes like Doctor Doom.
Spider-Man
Tom Holland's Peter Parker remains a central figure in the MCU, even after choosing to step away from the spotlight. Despite the world forgetting his identity, the Avengers' need for Spider-Man in Doomsday and Secret Wars is undeniable. The possibility that Wong still knows Spider-Man's secret identity could be the key to bringing him back into the fold.
She-Hulk
While Mark Ruffalo's Hulk may take a backseat, Tatiana Maslany's She-Hulk is set to be the new powerhouse on the Avengers. With her intelligence, strength, and unique ability to break the fourth wall, She-Hulk is an ideal addition to the team.
Captain Marvel's team in The Marvels, including Brie Larson's Carol Danvers, Teyonah Parris' Monica Rambeau, and Iman Vellani's Kamala Khan, is poised to contribute significantly to Doomsday and Secret Wars. With Captain Marvel's leadership potential and Kamala's enthusiasm for superhero teams, their involvement is crucial.
How Many Avengers Is Too Many?
As the list of potential Avengers grows, the question arises: can the MCU handle a roster of 20 or more heroes? Inspired by Jonathan Hickman's expansive Avengers run in the comics, the MCU might follow suit with multiple teams, akin to the New York and West Coast Avengers.
Hawkeye & Hawkguy
With their expertise in archery, Jeremy Renner's Hawkeye and Hailee Steinfeld's Kate Bishop are essential additions. Despite Renner's recent recovery from an accident, he's eager to return for Avengers: Doomsday, with Kate likely to follow suit after being approached by Kamala in The Marvels.
Thor
As one of the last original Avengers still active, Thor's role in the new team is vital. Thor: Love and Thunder sets him up perfectly to defend Earth again, possibly alongside his adopted daughter, Love. The potential for multiple Thors in Secret Wars, inspired by the Thor Corps from the comics, adds an exciting dimension to his involvement.
Following the introduction of Kang in Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, the Ant-Man family, including Ant-Man, Wasp, and Stature, are likely to play significant roles in Doomsday. The Quantum Realm's importance in the Multiverse Saga ensures their continued relevance.
While the Guardians of the Galaxy's role in the next Avengers movies remains uncertain, Chris Pratt's Star-Lord is likely to have a part in Doomsday. With his return to Earth in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, Star-Lord's involvement in defending his home planet seems imminent.
Though Chadwick Boseman's Black Panther never officially joined the Avengers, Wakanda's resources and technology are crucial. With Letitia Wright's Shuri now wearing the suit and Winston Duke's M'Baku as the new monarch, Wakanda's support in Doomsday will be invaluable.
Note - this article was originally published on July 28, 2022 and updated on February 18, 2025 with the latest MCU developments.
