Marvel Unveils New Avengers in "Doomsday" and "Secret Wars"

The MCU has undergone significant changes since Avengers: Endgame, most notably the absence of an active Avengers team. While new heroes are emerging to fill the void left by Iron Man and Captain America, a full-fledged Avengers movie remains some time away. Even Captain America: Brave New World avoids a complete reunion of Earth's Mightiest Heroes.

A proper Avengers assembly is only slated for the end of Phase 6, with the back-to-back releases of Avengers: Doomsday (2026) and Avengers: Secret Wars (2027). So, who will answer the call? Let's examine the likely candidates for Phase 6's Avengers roster.

The Next Generation of Avengers

15 ImagesWong

With Tony Stark and Steve Rogers absent, Benedict Wong's Wong has become a pivotal figure in Phases 4 and 5, acting as a unifying force. His appearances in numerous post-Endgame projects solidify his importance. Having inherited the mantle of Sorcerer Supreme, his proactive defense of the world against emerging threats makes him a key player in the Avengers' resurgence.

Shang-Chi

Simu Liu's Shang-Chi is a strong contender for Phase 6's Avengers. His summoning by Wong in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings and Destin Daniel Cretton's initial involvement with Avengers: The Kang Dynasty (before directorial changes) strongly suggest significant plans for Shang-Chi's future. His mastery of the Ten Rings makes him a valuable asset. The mid-credits scene in Shang-Chi hints at a larger mystery surrounding these artifacts, potentially impacting Avengers: Doomsday.

Doctor Strange

While Wong is Sorcerer Supreme, Stephen Strange's expertise in magic and the multiverse remains crucial. His current involvement in another universe, assisting Clea with the Incursion problem, suggests a future role in the Avengers' confrontation with Doctor Doom.

Captain America

The Avengers need a Captain America. Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson has taken up the mantle, and Captain America: Brave New World will further develop his leadership. The film suggests Sam will be instrumental in reassembling the team, despite initial conflict with President Ross. His journey to becoming a worthy successor to Steve Rogers will likely be a major theme in Doomsday and Secret Wars.

War Machine

Don Cheadle's War Machine is poised for a more prominent role. Armor Wars, focusing on Rhodey's efforts to prevent Tony Stark's technology from falling into the wrong hands, builds upon Secret Invasion. His experience and firepower make him a natural fit for the Avengers.

Ironheart

Dominique Thorne's Riri Williams is a strong candidate to become the MCU's new Iron Man. Her debut in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever showcased her intellect and technological prowess. Ironheart will further establish her as a hero, ready to join the Avengers in Avengers: Doomsday.

Spider-Man

Tom Holland's Spider-Man remains a flagship hero, despite his choice for anonymity. His involvement in Doomsday and Secret Wars is highly probable, barring any further conflicts between Marvel Studios and Sony. The mystery surrounding the world's amnesia regarding Spider-Man's identity presents an intriguing plot point.

She-Hulk

While Mark Ruffalo's Hulk will likely have a role, She-Hulk is emerging as a significant powerhouse. Tatiana Maslany's She-Hulk combines intellect, strength, and a unique personality, making her a compelling addition to the Avengers.

The Marvels

Brie Larson's Captain Marvel, Teyonah Parris' Monica Rambeau, and Iman Vellani's Kamala Khan, having formed a team in The Marvels, are likely to play significant roles in the upcoming Avengers films. Captain Marvel's leadership qualities and the mysteries surrounding Monica and Kamala's arcs suggest key roles in Doomsday and Secret Wars.

A Larger-Than-Life Team?

The potential Avengers roster is substantial. The original team consisted of six; a much larger team is possible, drawing inspiration from the expansive rosters seen in the comics, potentially including multiple co-existing teams.

Hawkeye & Hawkguy

The Avengers need archers. Jeremy Renner's Hawkeye, despite his recent accident, may return. Hailee Steinfeld's Kate Bishop, seen interacting with Kamala in The Marvels, is also a likely candidate.

Thor

Thor, a veteran Avenger, remains a key figure. His position after Thor: Love and Thunder sets him up for a return. The possibility of multiple Thors in Avengers: Secret Wars, referencing the Secret Wars comic, adds another layer of intrigue.

The Ant-Man Family

Given Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania's connection to Kang, Ant-Man, Wasp, and Stature are likely to remain significant, especially considering the Quantum Realm's importance.

Star-Lord

While the Guardians' role is uncertain, Star-Lord's return to Earth at the end of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 suggests a potential involvement.

Black Panther

With Shuri now the Black Panther, Wakanda's resources and technology will likely remain crucial to the Avengers. M'Baku's role as the new monarch also adds another dynamic.

Who leads the new team? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts!

Who should lead the new Avengers team in Avengers: Doomsday?

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For more on the MCU's future, explore the possibility of Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom and review all upcoming Marvel movies and series.

Note: This article was originally published on July 28, 2022, and updated on February 18, 2025, with the latest MCU developments.