Marvel Studios is reportedly advancing on a new installment with the focus keyword Sam Mendes Doctor Strange 3 becoming increasingly relevant, as Benedict Cumberbatch shows growing interest in influencing the creative direction. With neither previous writer Michael Waldron nor director Sam Raimi expected to return, acclaimed filmmaker Sam Mendes has emerged as a leading contender on Cumberbatch’s wishlist for the highly anticipated sequel.
Cumberbatch Addresses the Future of Stephen Strange and Collaboration
During a discussion with Screen Rant about his role in The Thing with Feathers, Benedict Cumberbatch was questioned about Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige‘s recent statement declaring Stephen Strange the “anchor of the MCU.” Cumberbatch deflected, stating, “You have to ask Kevin.” However, when pressed about the possibility of Sam Mendes coming on board, he offered,
I honestly, it’s just not worth the backlash, trouble, and the boring nature of any answer following me around forever.
Cumberbatch, Actor
While staying cautious, Cumberbatch shared his appreciation for his role in shaping the franchise, explaining,
the amount of collaborative input I’m allowed to have in that universe
Cumberbatch, Actor
He emphasized the team effort involved in these blockbuster films, stating,
Collaboration is collaboration. You’re working with the most amazing people and in the most extraordinary original IPs.
Cumberbatch, Actor
Continuing on his enthusiasm for creative involvement, Cumberbatch remarked,
So yeah, bring it on. I love being part of a creative process,
Cumberbatch, Actor
and went on to express his excitement for the character’s evolution, saying,
So yeah, where I can contribute, I do. And it’s exciting to see where he’s going to go next.
Cumberbatch, Actor
Behind the Scenes: Shifts in the Director’s Chair
As Marvel Studios eyes new storytelling directions, original Doctor Strange director Scott Derrickson initially had plans to return, potentially crafting a sequel focused on Nightmare instead of the Multiverse. However, creative disagreements led to Derrickson stepping away, opening a spot eventually filled by Sam Raimi, known for guiding the Spider-Man trilogy.
Box Office Performance and Character’s Potential Arc
Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness proved commercially successful, earning $955.8 million globally despite its mixed critical response and fan Divison regarding the fallout from WandaVision. As speculation grows over Sam Mendes potentially bringing his cinematic vision to the franchise, the character Stephen Strange is positioned to play a leading role in the MCU’s direction after Avengers: Secret Wars. The possibility of Doctor Strange reclaiming the Sorcerer Supreme mantle presents fresh opportunities for deeper character exploration, likely impacting Marvel’s interconnected stories.
What Comes Next for Cumberbatch and the Franchise
Looking ahead, Benedict Cumberbatch is slated to appear in upcoming major projects such as Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars. While he has denied certain plot rumors, industry sources suggest Stephen Strange could remain central to the conclusion of the Multiverse Saga. With rumors persisting about Sam Mendes’s involvement, fans and industry watchers continue to monitor Marvel Studios for announcements regarding Sam Mendes Doctor Strange 3, anticipating how the next chapter will redefine both the character and the broader MCU.
