Despite speculation and recent reports, Anthony Mackie has clarified that Chris Evans will not be coming back to play Captain America in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). The widely discussed question regarding
“Chris Evans not returning as Captain America in MCU”
was addressed directly as Mackie said Evans is “happily retired,” settling rumors that had been circulating among fans and the media.
Anthony Mackie Addresses Rumors of Evans’ Return
During a recent interview, Anthony Mackie, who currently holds the iconic shield as the new Captain America, confronted questions about the alleged return of Chris Evans. When approached by an interviewer regarding widespread claims that Evans was set to reprise his role in the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday, Mackie exercised honesty and candor, providing details of his recent conversations with Evans. Describing his role as successor in the franchise, Mackie appeared both reflective and resolute as he discussed his co-star’s current status.
“I didn’t know! I talked to Chris a few weeks ago and it wasn’t on the table then. At least, he didn’t tell me it was on the table, because I asked him. I was like, ‘You know, they said they’re bringing everyone back for the movie. Are you coming back?’”
—Anthony Mackie, Actor
Addressing the pattern of speculation that has followed the MCU since Avengers: Endgame, Mackie explained that he had become accustomed to such rumors. The intensity of the speculation has only grown with the release schedules and shifting cast dynamics, and Mackie’s camaraderie with Chris Evans allowed him to offer insight into the true state of affairs.
“That’s not true, though. his always happens. I mean, it happens every couple years—ever since Endgame. I’ve just stopped responding to it. Yeah, no — happily retired!”
—Anthony Mackie, Actor
With Mackie’s direct rejection of the rumors, it becomes evident that fans hoping for a surprise return from Evans will likely be disappointed, at least in the foreseeable future. While speculation about hidden studio plans is a hallmark of the Marvel fan community, the actor’s remarks have provided far more certainty than prior rumors.
Evans’ Journey as Captain America and the Influence of Co-Stars
Reflecting on Chris Evans’ transformative run in the MCU, the journey began when Evans was first approached for Captain America: The First Avenger. The role came with a request from Marvel that he commit to seeing his character’s full arc through, an offer that initially led Evans to hesitate. The seriousness of the commitment put him in a conflicted position, reluctant to sign on despite the excitement surrounding the new era of superhero films in Hollywood.
During an interview with ScreenRant, where Evans appeared alongside Dakota Johnson to promote Materialists, the actor was candid about who inspired him to say yes to the role. Evans notably credited Robert Downey Jr., an established presence in Hollywood and the MCU, for providing the push he needed. Their friendship and Downey’s encouragement proved pivotal in Evans’ decision-making process, showing the strong bonds among MCU cast members.
“I might even say Downey. I made movies for 10 years prior to jumping onto [MCU]. He was the one who kind of talked me into it. I didn’t want to take the role. I said ‘no’ a few times, and he was the one who kind of gave the nudge.”
—Chris Evans, Actor
This admission underlines the role of Robert Downey Jr. not only as a fellow actor but also as a guiding influence behind the scenes. Evans’ affiliation with the MCU spanned almost a decade, culminating in his character’s dignified exit in Avengers: Endgame. His dedication and performance across multiple films left a lasting mark on the franchise and helped elevate the dynamic between iconic characters such as Captain America and Iron Man.
What This Means for the Future of the MCU
With Anthony Mackie now carrying the mantle of Captain America and Evans expressing no intent to return, the future of the MCU is poised for both continuity and change. While fans remain hopeful for unexpected appearances and plot twists, Mackie’s frank comments and the statements from Chris Evans himself leave little room for speculation about returning roles in the upcoming Avengers films.
The emotional reaction from the fan base illustrates a sense of nostalgia and longing for the legacy characters, signifying how deeply Chris Evans’ portrayal has resonated with viewers around the world. Future MCU projects, including Avengers: Doomsday—scheduled for a United States theatrical release on December 18, 2026—will move forward with new heroes and storylines while honoring the history shaped by Evans, Downey Jr., and their co-stars.
As the Marvel landscape evolves, the impact of Evans’ previous commitment and Mackie’s current stewardship as Captain America serves as a testament to the enduring influence of the characters and the collaborations that brought them to life. The confirmed news of Chris Evans not returning as Captain America in MCU marks a turning point for the franchise and sets the stage for fresh narratives inspired by its storied past.
