Chris Evans struggles after Captain America roles have become increasingly apparent since his departure from the Marvel Cinematic Universe in 2019’s Avengers: Endgame. Evans, who gained significant acclaim for his portrayal of Steve Rogers, quickly found himself facing a series of mixed results when taking on new projects in Hollywood.
Shortly after hanging up the shield, Evans took on a villainous character in Rian Johnson‘s Knives Out, a performance that was widely praised by critics and audiences. However, other subsequent films did not fare as well. Pixar’s Lightyear was enjoyable for some, but ultimately underperformed at the box office. The Gray Man, an action thriller featuring Ryan Gosling and directed by the Russo Brothers, failed to live up to expectations as a big-budget venture. Further projects such as Ghosted, Pain Hustlers, and Red One also received mostly negative reactions, with reviews noting disappointment in the choice of roles and outcomes.
Comparisons and Hopes for a Career Resurgence
Similar to Tom Holland, another actor who has faced difficulty replicating superhero fame, Chris Evans has been searching for a new breakthrough. The upcoming film Materialists, which features Evans alongside Pedro Pascal and Dakota Johnson, is being viewed as a possible turning point in his career. During a recent promotional event, the three stars engaged in a playful discussion about choosing roles for each other. Evans joked,
“I’d always put you [both] in the movies I’m doing…ruin both those careers [Laughs].”
—Chris Evans, Actor
The lackluster performance of his recent projects has led to speculation regarding Evans’ management and choice of roles. Some have suggested a reunion with Ryan Reynolds could revitalize his career, considering their successful collaborations in films like Free Guy and cameos in Deadpool & Wolverine, which have stood out as highlights since Evans left the MCU.
Nostalgia and Finality Regarding Superhero Roles
While speaking about his recent return as the Human Torch, Chris Evans reflected on the experience.
“I loved that role: I have a lot of love in my heart for Johnny Storm and so getting that call from Ryan… I mean I would do anything for Ryan, but getting to yell flame on again was just special. I really loved every second.”
—Chris Evans, Actor
Despite the nostalgia and affection for previous roles, Evans remains firm that his journey as Captain America has come to an end. He stated,
“Oh man, I don’t know. I think… you know, those were wonderful, wonderful times and it’s probably the dearest role to my heart but… you know, it might be better just to let those times be those times.”
—Chris Evans, Actor
Rumors continue to circulate about the possibility of Evans reprising his role as Steve Rogers, perhaps even as a villainous HYDRA Cap variant working with Doctor Doom, in the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday or Avengers: Secret Wars. However, nothing official has been announced, and Evans has not made any commitment to return.
Looking Ahead for Chris Evans
Marvel Studios has announced the release of Avengers: Doomsday for December 18, 2026, followed by Avengers: Secret Wars on December 17, 2027. Fans are left to speculate about whether Evans will make another appearance within the franchise or continue to seek new success elsewhere. As Chris Evans faces uncertainty post-Captain America, anticipation remains high for him to recapture his earlier acclaim, either alongside old collaborators like Ryan Reynolds or in fresh projects such as Materialists with Dakota Johnson and Pedro Pascal.
