Chris Evans may be set to return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) in the upcoming movie Avengers: Doomsday, with new fan art portraying him as an evil version of Captain America aligned with HYDRA. While Evans has not confirmed his participation and has denied involvement, rumors continue to circulate about his potential role in the film, suggesting a villainous twist for the iconic character.
Reports have hinted at Evans reprising his role as Steve Rogers, possibly exploring a darker path for the hero. His recent physical condition reminiscent of his Avengers days has fueled speculation, keeping fans engaged about what to expect from this highly anticipated MCU installment.
Visualizing a HYDRA-Aligned Captain America: Symbolism and Implications
The fan-created artwork depicts Evans in a modified Captain America suit featuring a black and red color palette, replacing the traditional blue and white. The character carries a shield adorned with the HYDRA emblem while seated on a throne, portraying a stark contrast to the heroic Steve Rogers fans know. This visual aligns with the concept of multiple realities within the MCU, as Avengers: Doomsday could explore alternate versions of classic characters.
With the MCU’s multiverse framework, it would be plausible for the story to include both the heroic Captain America and an evil HYDRA counterpart, potentially both played by Evans. This idea echoes the brief moment in Avengers: Endgame when the Steve Rogers character uttered “Hail HYDRA,” hinting at the possibility of embracing this darker narrative fully.
Potential Narrative and Character Dynamics in Avengers: Doomsday
The utilization of the multiverse could allow Marvel to delve deeper into the darker aspects of Captain America’s legacy. According to emerging details about the film, the main antagonist will be Doctor Doom, portrayed by Robert Downey Jr., who famously played Iron Man. Given Downey’s comeback as a villain, the door is open for Evans to follow suit by taking on a complex, possibly antagonistic role.
The inclusion of original Avengers stars led by a villain like Doom would create a unique dynamic, pitting an older generation of heroes against newer teams such as the Fantastic Four and the New Avengers. This scenario builds significant excitement as audiences anticipate the interactions between these diverse groups.
What Evans’ Involvement Could Mean for the MCU’s Future
Currently, there is no official confirmation that Chris Evans will appear in Avengers: Doomsday or portray the HYDRA Captain America specifically. However, Evans returned to the MCU in 2024 as Johnny Storm, also known as the Human Torch, in the Fantastic Four reboot, indicating his ongoing relationship with Marvel.
The Russo Brothers, who directed Evans in his last Captain America and Avengers films, are helming Avengers: Doomsday, which increases the likelihood of his participation. The HYDRA Captain America role would offer a way to keep Steve Rogers’ original MCU storyline intact while introducing a fresh direction, possibly persuading Evans to reprise his role in the 2026 release.
Key Cast Members Featured in Avengers: Doomsday
The film’s cast already includes notable actors such as Chris Hemsworth reprising Thor, Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm (Invisible Woman), Joseph Quinn playing Johnny Storm (Human Torch), and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm (The Thing). This ensemble highlights a blend of classic and new Marvel characters expected to contribute to the complex narrative.
