
Benedict Cumberbatch has unveiled an unexpected twist in Doctor Strange’s journey within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). After nearly a decade in the role, the actor confirmed a significant change to the former Sorcerer Supreme’s future appearances.
Since debuting in Doctor Strange (2016), Cumberbatch’s Stephen Strange has become a defining character in the MCU. Once an egotistical neurosurgeon, Strange’s path to redemption led him to the mystical arts, where he has played a vital role in the franchise’s most iconic moments. From wielding the Time Stone to defeat Dormammu to shaping the strategy that brought down Thanos, Strange’s actions have shaped the MCU’s landscape.
His most recent outing came in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022), a film that divided audiences and critics alike. Directed by Sam Raimi, the movie introduced America Chavez (Xochitl Gomez) and delved deeper into the Multiverse, including some unexpected cameos from the likes of Mister Fantastic (John Krasinski) and Peggy Carter (Hayley Atwell).
While praised for its ambition, the film faced backlash over its portrayal of Wanda Maximoff (Elizabeth Olsen), its CGI shortcomings, and an ending that left fans puzzled. By the conclusion, Strange had gained a third eye after using the Darkhold, raising questions about his moral compass and future challenges.
Despite the cliffhanger, Cumberbatch revealed that Doctor Strange has been removed from Avengers: Doomsday (2026), the revised version of Avengers: Kang Dynasty.
Speaking to Variety, the actor confirmed that Strange was originally set for a major role in the film, but plans changed after Jonathan Majors, cast as Kang the Conqueror, was removed from the MCU after being found guilty of two misdemeanor counts of assault and harassment.
“Is that a spoiler?” Cumberbatch said when discussing the change. “F**k it!” He went on to explain that the decision to exclude Strange came down to “the character not aligning with this part of the story.” The reworked narrative now features Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom, who steps into the role of the saga’s primary antagonist.
While this shift may disappoint fans, it’s not the end for Doctor Strange. According to Cumberbatch, the character will play a significant role in Avengers: Secret Wars (2027). “He’s quite central to where things might go,” the actor teased. Additionally, a third standalone Doctor Strange film is in the works, offering further opportunities to explore the character’s complexities.
“They are very open to discussing where we go next,” Cumberbatch said of Marvel’s creative team. “Who do you want to write and direct the next one? What part of the comic lore do you want to explore so that Strange can keep evolving? He’s a very rich character to play. He’s a complex, contradictory, troubled human who’s got these extraordinary abilities, so there’s potent stuff to mess about with.”
Doctor Strange’s journey has always been one of transformation, and while his absence in Avengers: Doomsday signals a change in direction, his story within the MCU remains far from over. Whether leading the charge in Secret Wars or continuing his personal evolution in his next solo film, Strange’s next chapter promises to deliver even more mystic intrigue.
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