The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has evolved significantly since the monumental events of *Avengers: Endgame*. With the departure of key figures like Iron Man and Captain America, the absence of a formal Avengers team has paved the way for new heroes to rise. While *Captain America: Brave New World* teases the groundwork for a new team, fans will have to wait until Phase 6 for the full reunion of Earth's Mightiest Heroes. The culmination of this phase promises epic showdowns in *Avengers: Doomsday* in 2026 and *Avengers: Secret Wars* in 2027. Here's a look at who might be stepping up to the plate.
Who Will Be the New Avengers in the MCU?
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Wong
In the post-Endgame era, Wong, portrayed by Benedict Wong, has become the linchpin of the MCU, appearing in 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 role as the new Sorcerer Supreme positions him perfectly to rally the heroes when the time comes for the Avengers to regroup. Wong's proactive stance against emerging threats makes him indispensable for the new team.
Shang-Chi
Simu Liu's Shang-Chi is a sure bet for the Avengers lineup in Phase 6. His summoning by Wong at the end of Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings and the involvement of his director Destin Daniel Cretton in Avengers: The Kang Dynasty before its rework, signal big plans for his character. With the mystical Ten Rings at his disposal, Shang-Chi's potential is boundless, especially as the mid-credits scene hints at a deeper mystery surrounding these artifacts.
Doctor Strange
Despite Wong taking over as Sorcerer Supreme, Doctor Strange, played by Benedict Cumberbatch, remains crucial to the Avengers' future. His expertise in magic and the multiverse, coupled with his current mission with Charlize Theron's Clea in another universe, ensures his importance. The tease from Multiverse of Madness suggests a significant role for him in the battle against Doctor Doom in Avengers: Doomsday.
Captain America
No Avengers team feels complete without Captain America. With Chris Evans' Steve Rogers stepping back, Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson has taken up the mantle. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier showcased Sam's journey to accepting this role, and Captain America: Brave New World will further his development. President Ross's proposal for a government-sanctioned Avengers team sets the stage for Sam to lead, albeit with initial reluctance.
War Machine
Don Cheadle's War Machine, having played a supportive role in previous films, is stepping into the spotlight with Armor Wars. His experience and firepower make him a natural fit to fill the void left by Iron Man. While he may not match Tony Stark's genius, his contribution to the team will be significant.
Ironheart
Dominique Thorne's Riri Williams, aka Ironheart, is poised to become the MCU's new Iron Man. Her debut in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever and her upcoming series Ironheart underscore her growing importance. By the time Avengers: Doomsday arrives, Ironheart's intellect and tech will be vital assets against formidable foes like Doctor Doom.
Spider-Man
Tom Holland's Peter Parker remains a central figure in the MCU, despite his decision to return to being a Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man. The complication of the world forgetting his identity could be circumvented if Wong retained knowledge of his secret, as hinted in Spider-Man: No Way Home. Spider-Man's role in Doomsday and Secret Wars seems inevitable, provided Marvel and Sony maintain their partnership.
She-Hulk
While Mark Ruffalo's Hulk may take a step back, Tatiana Maslany's She-Hulk is emerging as a powerhouse for the new Avengers. Her blend of intelligence, strength, and humor, as seen in her series, positions her as a standout member of the team.
The Marvels
Though the Avengers are currently disbanded, Captain Marvel's team in The Marvels—comprising Brie Larson's Carol Danvers, Teyonah Parris's Monica Rambeau, and Iman Vellani's Kamala Khan—suggests their involvement in the upcoming Avengers films. Captain Marvel's leadership qualities make her a prime candidate to lead, while Monica's mysterious whereabouts and Kamala's enthusiasm hint at their roles in the team.
How Many Avengers Is Too Many?
As the Avengers roster potentially expands to over 20 members, the MCU may draw inspiration from the comics, where large teams and multiple squads coexist. The upcoming films could explore this concept, ensuring each hero has a meaningful role in the narrative.
Hawkeye & Hawkguy
With Jeremy Renner's Hawkeye potentially returning despite his recent accident, and Hailee Steinfeld's Kate Bishop joining the fray, the Avengers will have skilled archers in their ranks. Kate's connection to Kamala Khan in The Marvels suggests her readiness to step up when called upon.
Thor
As one of the last remaining original Avengers, Chris Hemsworth's Thor is poised to continue his legacy. The ending of Thor: Love and Thunder positions him to return to Earth's defense, possibly with his adopted daughter Love. The Secret Wars comics hint at multiple Thors, suggesting a significant role for Thor in the MCU's future.
The Ant-Man Family
Given the Quantum Realm's importance in the Multiverse Saga, Paul Rudd's Ant-Man, Evangeline Lilly's Wasp, and Kathryn Newton's Stature are likely to play key roles in Avengers: Doomsday. Their involvement could be crucial in countering the threats posed by Doctor Doom.
Star-Lord
Chris Pratt's Star-Lord, returning to Earth at the end of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, suggests a role in the upcoming Avengers films. His leadership skills and connection to Earth could prove vital as new threats emerge.
Black Panther
Though Chadwick Boseman's Black Panther never officially joined the Avengers, his successor, Letitia Wright's Shuri, and Winston Duke's M'Baku, now ruling Wakanda, are poised to contribute. Wakanda's resources and technology will be crucial in the fight against powerful villains like Doctor Doom.
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.
