Speculation is swirling about the possible Chris Evans Captain America return after striking new fan art placed him at the center of the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday, reigniting debate on his status in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The conversation has intensified as Marvel’s recent Avengers cast announcement excluded Evans, even as rumors and artwork suggest a potential surprise comeback.
Renewed Hype Around Steve Rogers in Avengers: Doomsday
Fans were surprised when Chris Evans’ name was not included during the extended live-stream unveiling Marvel’s next Avengers ensemble. Despite this, images have emerged that reimagine what Steve Rogers’ role could look like if he did return, fueling hope among Marvel viewers.
While Avengers regulars like Chris Hemsworth and Robert Downey Jr. were featured in the official lineup, Evans’ continued absence has left audiences questioning the reports citing his involvement. Notably, an Instagram post by artist @yugraphics00 visualized both Captain America and Peggy Carter making potential comebacks in “Avengers: Doomsday,” stimulating fresh fan conversation and speculation.
This fan-created depiction of Peggy Carter does not place her in her superhero gear from “What If…?” or
“Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness,”
choosing instead to reference her last canonical Marvel appearance in “Avengers: Endgame,” alongside Steve Rogers in the past. The art also presents Captain America with a beard, hinting at possible character developments should he rejoin the action.
Uncertainty Surrounding Evans and Atwell’s MCU Status
The resurgence of this discussion relates directly to insider claims and media speculation about the upcoming Avengers story. Although neither Chris Evans nor Hayley Atwell was officially named for the new film, this absence does not conclusively rule them out. Keeping their possible return secret could align with Marvel’s tendency to maintain story surprises, particularly since “Avengers: Endgame” appeared to resolve their arcs.
According to reports circulating since December 2024, Evans was allegedly approached to reprise his role for Avengers: Doomsday, with Atwell’s possible return as Peggy Carter following soon after. These reports also reference earlier discussions from 2021 about a standalone Steve Rogers and Peggy Carter movie, which nearly materialized.
In June, Evans told ScreenRant he felt
sad to not be back with the band,
but continued to stress that he is not involved with the franchise’s next phase, despite rumors to the contrary. Hayley Atwell, meanwhile, expressed enthusiasm to Den of Geek for appearing in the upcoming Avengers films, though she did not confirm any arrangements with Marvel.
Why Steve Rogers and Peggy Carter’s Returns Could Matter
Bringing back Robert Downey Jr.’s character as Doctor Doom without also including Evans’ Captain America would fundamentally alter anticipated interactions within the MCU’s evolving Multiverse Saga. The complex storyline involving time travel and dimensional disruption suggests that Steve Rogers’ decision to stay with Peggy Carter might produce ripple effects, possibly influencing figures like Doctor Doom.
Fans have pointed out that if Evans is back, it would be logical for Hayley Atwell’s Peggy Carter to appear alongside him, given their intertwined histories. The connection is further underscored by the fact that Joe and Anthony Russo, directors of two of Evans’ Captain America films, are at the helm for Avengers: Doomsday. Their involvement might have played a role in making Evans’ alleged return more accessible.
Confirmed Avengers: Doomsday Cast So Far
While fans continue to pore over hints and speculate about unannounced roles, several stars have been confirmed for the upcoming ensemble epic. The current cast includes Chris Hemsworth, who reprises his role as Thor, Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm (Invisible Woman), Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm (the Human Torch), and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm (the Thing). This group showcases a blend of established heroes and new additions, but neither Chris Evans nor Hayley Atwell are officially named as part of this roster yet.
As excitement and speculation grow with each new fan theory and unofficial leak, the possibility of a Chris Evans Captain America return continues to generate intense debate within the Marvel Cinematic Universe community. With the Russo Brothers directing and themes of time manipulation at the heart of the next Avengers chapter, the stakes for major character comebacks are higher than ever. Whether Marvel will confirm or deny these rumors, the conversation is likely to persist until the film’s release reshapes the MCU landscape.
