Chris Evans denies Avengers Doomsday return rumors, stating once again that he will not reprise his role for the highly anticipated film. Despite ongoing speculation and leaked cast lists, Evans insists he is not involved, even as excitement and uncertainty grow among Avengers fans.
Evans Addresses Ongoing Speculation
Persistent rumors continue to swirl online, fueled by a supposed cast leak naming Chris Evans as part of the Avengers: Doomsday roster and claims from X-Men writer Chris Claremont that Evans is set to play multiple roles. However, in a recent interview while promoting his new movie Materialists alongside Dakota Johnson and Pedro Pascal, Evans made it clear he does not plan to return.
During a discussion with IGN, Evans reflected on his relationship with the Marvel cast and addressed his feelings about not being involved in the project. He expressed some sadness about not participating, given the camaraderie he shares with other actors like Pascal, but affirmed his absence from the upcoming film.
Chris Evans Explains His Position
While the enthusiasm for his return is high, Evans reiterates that he has retired from playing Captain America. Back in January, he responded directly to recurring casting rumors, stating:
“That’s not true, though. This always happens. I mean, it happens every couple years — ever since Endgame. I’ve just stopped responding to it. Yeah, no — happily retired!”
—Chris Evans, Actor
Speculation About a Secret Return
Despite his firm denials, many believe Chris Evans may be downplaying his involvement with Avengers: Doomsday or the upcoming Secret Wars. The return of Robert Downey Jr. has fueled hope that nearly all former Avengers could reprise their roles, with the notable exception of Scarlett Johansson. Reports also include Jeremy Renner returning as Hawkeye, and Tom Hiddleston is confirmed to be back as Loki.
Marvel Comics’ Chris Claremont further stoked rumors, suggesting Evans would take on several forms of Captain America, possibly even “Captain Hydra” in this extensive film. Claremont said:
“Chris Evans is playing Captain America, young Captain America, evil Captain America, Captain Hydra or something like that… Lord Hydra, whatever…”
—Chris Claremont, Marvel Comics Writer
Details on Avengers: Doomsday and Its Expansive Cast
Avengers: Doomsday is set for release on December 18, 2026, under the direction of Joe and Anthony Russo. The announcement of its sizeable 27-member cast, which notably includes Chris Hemsworth, Anthony Mackie, Sebastian Stan, Paul Rudd, Letitia Wright, Florence Pugh, Simu Liu, Tom Hiddleston, Wyatt Russell, David Harbour, Winston Duke, Danny Ramirez, Hannah John-Kamen, Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen, Alan Cumming, Rebecca Romijn, James Marsden, Kelsey Grammer, Channing Tatum, Tenoch Huerta Mejía, Lewis Pullman, and Robert Downey Jr., only intensifies debate over whether Evans could still make a surprise appearance.
Uncertain Future for the Franchise
Chris Evans’ repeated denials leave fans restless, especially as almost every major Avenger, from Jeremy Renner and Chris Hemsworth to Tom Hiddleston and Florence Pugh, are slated to return. With Avengers: Doomsday shaping up to be one of the most star-studded ensemble films, speculation is likely to continue right up to the premiere. For now, the question of whether Evans truly is “happily retired” or simply keeping a last-minute comeback under wraps remains unanswered.
