The Startling MCU Returns of Chris Evans and Robert Downey Jr.
The sudden return of two legendary actors—Robert Downey Jr. and Chris Evans—from the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) shocked the fan base. Astonishment and delight greeted the announcement of these comebacks at San Diego Comic Con (SDCC) 2024, but was Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige not quietly hinting at their appearances all along?
Following the release of Deadpool & Wolverine, in which Chris Evans unexpectedly appeared as Johnny Storm from the 2005 Fantastic Four film, came the disclosures. This, along with Robert Downey Jr.'s reveal at SDCC as Doctor Doom, sparked rumors that Feige had been sowing the seeds for these comebacks for some time.
Comments by Kevin Feige Hinted to the MCU Comebacks of Chris Evans and Robert Downey Jr.
Asking Kevin Feige about the likelihood of Chris Evans and Robert Downey Jr. playing Steve Rogers and Tony Stark again has come up many times over the years. Even though he frequently gave vague responses, he never closed the door. In an interview with Discussing Film, Feige highlighted that Marvel Studios would only bring back Downey Jr. or Evans if the role felt appropriate for their reputation. He noted Hugh Jackman's return to the role of Wolverine in Deadpool & Wolverine as an example of a successful character revival.
With the benefit of hindsight, Feige's deliberate phrasing in those interviews now seems like subliminal humor. Would he have given fans any hope at all if he was genuinely opposed to their Return? It seems that the purpose of this well-planned uncertainty was to set up the audience for these huge comebacks.
How Long Did Chris Evans and Robert Downey Jr.'s MCU Returns Expected To Run?
Given that Deadpool & Wolverine was filmed in the beginning of 2024, Chris Evans' cameo implies that his comeback had been planned for at least a year. Given Evans' departure from Avengers: Endgame, it's plausible that Marvel Studios had this appearance planned all along. In a similar vein, The Fantastic Four director Matt Shakman disclosed that the identity of the Doctor Doom cast had been kept under wraps for some time. This information, which has been withheld even from the media, suggests a methodical and well-thought-out approach.
The creation of Avengers 5, originally known as Avengers: Doomsday, was likewise a well-planned action. Following Jonathan Majors' dismissal in 2023, Marvel Studios changed course to a narrative with greater resonance. Returning to helm the movie, the Russo brothers stressed that the best actor was needed to play the dangerous villain, a decision that ultimately resulted in Robert Downey Jr. being cast. This suggests that even if Downey Jr. hadn't turned into Doomsday in Avengers 5, his comeback might have been taken into consideration for a later project.
MCU Future: Scheduled Releases and Upcoming Marvel Films
The already exciting Marvel Cinematic Universe gets even more exciting with the return of Chris Evans and Robert Downey Jr. In addition to these well-known individuals, a number of other much awaited projects are also forthcoming. The following lists the forthcoming Marvel films along with the dates of release:
Captain America: The World Is Yours
Captain America: Brave New World, which will hit theaters on February 14, 2025, follows Sam Wilson as he adjusts to life as Captain America. The movie aims to delve into the intricate themes of identity, heritage, and the future of the US in a post-MCU world.
The thunderbolts
Thunderbolts, which opens in theaters on May 2, 2025, is a film that centers on a group of antiheroes who must cooperate in order to rescue the world. Yelena Belova, Taskmaster, Red Guardian, and US Agent are among the cast members in the movie; each has a convoluted backstory and set of goals.
It's The Fantastic Four
July 25, 2025, is when The Fantastic Four will finally make their much-anticipated comeback. This film is certain to be a significant event in the MCU, especially with Robert Downey Jr.'s confirmation as Doctor Doom.
BLADE
November 7, 2025, will see the release of Blade, which will bring the renowned vampire hunter to the MCU. Compared to other Marvel films, this one will have a gritty, darker tone and explore themes of identity and belonging while highlighting the character's special skills.
Avengers: Doomsday
In Avengers: Doomsday, the Avengers reunite for their greatest test to date on May 1, 2026. For MCU fans, this movie is a must-see since Robert Downey Jr.'s return as Doctor Doom and the possibility of other surprises, like additional Cameos by Chris Evans, are both exciting possibilities.
Secret Wars, Avengers
Avengers: Secret Wars, which will wrap out Phase Six of the MCU, will open in theaters on May 7, 2027. With the ability to unite heroes and villains from the whole multiverse, the movie looks to be a tremendous crossover event. Years of storytelling will come to a head with this, setting up a spectacular finale that will change the course of the MCU.
