Benedict Cumberbatch, known for his role as Doctor Strange in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, has openly criticized the production methods used in Hollywood, highlighting the extensive waste involved. Though he remains committed to reprising the role, the British actor described aspects of the filmmaking process as “grossly wasteful,” particularly in how sets are managed and resources are consumed.
Since first portraying Stephen Strange in the 2016 “Doctor Strange” film, Cumberbatch has returned for several MCU entries including “Avengers: Infinity War,” “Endgame,” and
“Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.”
Speaking on the Ruthie’s Table 4 podcast while promoting Wes Anderson‘s “The Phoenician Scheme,” the actor addressed the environmental and logistical inefficiencies he has witnessed throughout his time with the franchise.
He pointed out that
“set builds that aren’t recycled, think about transport, think about food, think about housing, but also light and energy.”
Additionally, Cumberbatch criticized the extreme diet requirements he underwent to prepare for the role, reflecting on the unnecessary excess involved. He remarked,
“What am I doing? I could feed a family with the amount I’m eating,”
underscoring the personal waste implicated in his physical transformation for the films.
Uncertainty Surrounds Benedict Cumberbatch’s Next MCU Appearance as Doctor Strange
While Cumberbatch expressed frustration with Hollywood’s sustainability practices, he is not expected to step away from playing Doctor Strange anytime soon. Although the character‘s involvement in the upcoming “Avengers: Doomsday” film remains unconfirmed, many anticipate his return to the MCU in future projects. Rumors suggest that the official cast list for “Doomsday” is only partially revealed, and additional actors may be announced ahead of the film’s release.
The actor’s most recent appearance was in
“Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness,”
where he starred alongside Elizabeth Olsen’s Wanda Maximoff and introduced Xochitl Gomez as America Chavez. Despite the star-studded cast and direction by Sam Raimi, the film received criticism from long-standing MCU fans for its script and overall execution.
The storyline in “Multiverse of Madness” sets up potential new adventures for Stephen Strange, leaving the door open for a sequel. If Doctor Strange does not feature in “Avengers: Doomsday,” Cumberbatch’s character might reappear in the next major MCU event, “Avengers: Secret Wars,” scheduled for December 2027.
Main Cast Members Associated with Doctor Strange
The core cast around Benedict Cumberbatch’s Doctor Strange includes key actors who have contributed to the MCU’s portrayal of mystical characters and allies. Chiwetel Ejiofor plays Mordo, Rachel McAdams returns as Dr. Christine Palmer, and Benedict Wong continues to portray Wong, the sorcerer ally. Their roles are central to the ongoing Doctor Strange storyline within the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s expanding narrative.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Does Benedict Cumberbatch support LGBTQ?
A. Benedict Cumberbatch advocates for LGBT+ rights. In July 2013, he conducted the same-sex wedding of his friends. He officiated the wedding between Robert Rinder, who is popularly known as Judge Rinder, and Seth Cummings.
