Chris Hemsworth fans can expect to see the actor sport a striking new look for Thor in the upcoming “Avengers: Doomsday,” with focused training hinting at a costume redesign. Meanwhile, rumors swirl around the movie’s filming in the UK, as Marvel appears to be preparing for Luke Cage’s long-awaited return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
Thor’s Costume Set for an Upgrade
Production for “Avengers: Doomsday” continues in the UK under the direction of Joe and Anthony Russo, and fresh details are surfacing about Chris Hemsworth’s preparation. Chris Hemsworth’s trainer shared insights revealing that they have intensified their focus on Hemsworth’s upper body ahead of his return as Thor. This preparation aligns with shifts in costume design intended to highlight the actor’s enhanced physique, particularly his arms and shoulders.
“The pair have also been paying special attention to Hemsworth’s arms and shoulders, having seen his costume for the film will highlight these areas.”
—pair, Trainer
The new approach suggests Marvel wants Thor’s latest outfit to emphasize his impressive build, moving away from previous designs such as the one featured in “Thor: Love and Thunder.” Fans can anticipate a more powerful visual statement in the upcoming film, matching the superhero’s evolving narrative and role within the MCU’s future.
Possible Return of Luke Cage to the MCU
The MCU has been steadily bringing back key heroes and villains, with Charlie Cox reprising Daredevil, Vincent D’Onofio returning as Kingpin, Jon Bernthal as The Punisher, and Krysten Ritter stepping into the role of Jessica Jones once more. Now, speculation grows that Luke Cage could also be making his return, fueled by reports from The Sun that Marvel has constructed a 1960s-style American house—specifically for Cage.
In addition to the Luke Cage set, another house reportedly built is for Annie Reynolds, rumored to be the mother of Lewis Pullman’s Robert Reynolds, also known as The Sentry, who will be seen in Thunderbolts. Both sets are part of a considerable production effort at Windsor Great Park, near Windsor Castle, with Marvel said to have spent millions on these elaborate builds. Filming is set to take place this summer, utilizing a crew of about 300 people.
While the specific narrative reason for the 1960s-era house is unclear, it raises interesting questions, especially since the original Luke Cage actor was born in 1976. The character Annie Reynolds also seems poised for her MCU debut as Marvel continues to expand its roster with new and returning figures. These productions could signal bold additions and narrative shifts in upcoming Marvel storylines.
Details About the Upcoming Release and Cast
“Avengers: Doomsday” is scheduled for a December 18, 2026 release, with the Russo brothers returning to helm the highly anticipated project. The sequel, “Secret Wars,” is set for December 17, 2027. Filming is currently underway, focused primarily in the UK. The confirmed cast features a robust lineup of Marvel favorites, including 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.
More than thirty additional actors are rumored to join, increasing excitement and speculation within the Marvel fanbase and media.
What’s Next for Marvel’s Cinematic Universe?
The updates on Chris Hemsworth’s new Thor costume for “Avengers: Doomsday” and the potential MCU return of Luke Cage demonstrate Marvel’s commitment to evolving its characters and deepening its expansive world. With significant investment in large-scale set construction, a diverse returning cast, and buzz around emerging storylines, these developments signal a period of change and anticipation for audiences worldwide. As production progresses, fans eagerly await further details that could shape the future of the MCU at Windsor Great Park and beyond.
