Simu Liu made a striking entry into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) as Shang-Chi in the film Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, released during a period when the MCU was facing a dip in popularity. Despite challenges, the movie emerged as a standout, earning critical acclaim and establishing Shang-Chi as a memorable character. However, unlike many other MCU heroes, Shang-Chi has yet to headline a sequel. Liu remains hopeful about the future of the character and recently shared his thoughts on continuing the role and the prospects of additional Shang-Chi films.
Liu’s Commitment to Continuing as Shang-Chi
In an interview with Comicbook.com, Simu Liu was asked how many sequels featuring Shang-Chi he would want to make. He replied candidly, stating,
I would keep doing [Shang-Chi sequels] as long as I physically could.
This response reflects the actor’s commitment and passion for the character. Liu has expressed enthusiasm about developing Shang-Chi’s story further and remains eager to explore the potential for more films centered on the hero, even as he prepares for his appearance in the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday.
Actor’s Enthusiasm and Past Comments on Sequels
Simu Liu previously voiced his excitement for a continuation of Shang-Chi during a 2025 appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. When asked about a sequel, Liu acknowledged the strong fanbase and their eagerness for more adventures featuring the character. He stated,
I understand the overwhelming fan enthusiasm and sentiment for the movie and the character, and the sequels. And we are so excited at the prospect of bringing that character back, and using him more. […] I love writing sequels in my head, and all the different storylines, so I get it.
This highlights not only his connection with the role but also his creative engagement with shaping Shang-Chi’s future narratives.
Patience Amidst Slow Sequel Development and Industry Comparisons
Despite the actor’s enthusiasm, it has taken a considerable amount of time for news of a Shang-Chi sequel to gain traction. Liu has shared his subtle frustrations, especially when comparing the timeline of Shang-Chi’s sequel to other properties. Responding to James Gunn’s announcement of the Superman sequel Man of Tomorrow, Liu reacted to a fan’s comment about the unusually quick sequel turnaround in that franchise with a simple emoji, conveying a sense of wistfulness over the slower pace of Marvel sequels like Shang-Chi’s.
Liu Talks About Challenges and Growth Within the MCU
Beyond sequel discussions, Liu opened up about the personal challenges he faces as a relatively new Marvel actor joining an established universe. He described feeling the pressure of stepping into a world where many fellow actors have performed their roles for over two decades. Explaining his mindset, Liu shared,
I was just in quite a large Marvel movie with a lot of these actors—some of whom have been playing the same role for, like, over 20 years. And it’s just, like, I’m stepping into their world. I’m stepping into their characters, who they’ve owned, and honed, and developed for so long. And it’s everything I can do just to stop myself from shaking, you know? But I guess… the thought that kind of powers me is, ‘You’ve gotta show up, and you gotta try your best.’ You gotta try your best to get something usable in there, and get out of your own way.
This reflection shows Liu’s dedication and humility as he grows alongside veteran MCU performers.
Prospects for a Shang-Chi Sequel and its Impact
Rumors and speculation about a Shang-Chi sequel have circulated for some time. Recently, Charles Murphy of Murthy’s Multiverse mentioned on X that director Destin Daniel Cretton had made significant progress on Shang-Chi-related projects before moving on to direct Spider-Man: Brand New Day. Although no official confirmation has been released, the release of Avengers: Doomsday on December 18, 2026, may provide an opportunity for the character to regain momentum and popularity, potentially paving the way for a standalone sequel featuring Simu Liu.
Expectations for Shang-Chi’s Future in the MCU
The release of Avengers: Doomsday stands as an important milestone for Liu and the Shang-Chi character. As audiences look forward to this next chapter, the performance of the film could significantly influence Marvel’s decision to greenlight a sequel. Fans eagerly await the chance to see Shang-Chi return to the spotlight and continue his story within the MCU’s expanding universe. Whether Liu will reprise his role in multiple sequels depends on several factors, including audience reception and studio plans, but his willingness to remain connected to the character remains clear.
I genuinely don't remember the last time a superhero movie had a sequel turnaround this fast https://t.co/kVgQANzeoG
— dumbdelvon (@dumbdelvon) September 3, 2025
Very possible. As of now, they have 4 dates but we'll see how it holds up. Also, Cretton had a lot of work done on Shang-Chi sequel before he jumped to Spidey so who knows how quickly that comes together? https://t.co/agkvSIPWvg
— Charles Murphy (@_CharlesMurphy) October 6, 2025
