Disney’s bold post-Endgame plans seemed simple: introduce new heroes, shift away from the legacy characters, and expand the universe. But somewhere along the way, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) lost some of its momentum.
Now, Disney appears to be reversing course, with Robert Downey Jr. confirmed to return—not as Iron Man, but as Doctor Doom. And if reports hold true, Chris Evans could also return as Steve Rogers in some capacity.
This strategy might feel like a step backward, but it’s really more of a course correction. Sebastian Stan, who plays Bucky Barnes, recently spoke about Marvel’s approach to its latest projects. In an interview, he said, “They just want to keep exploring,” praising the studio for its willingness to think outside the box and embrace new ideas without closing any doors. His excitement for the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday (2026) is a testament to Marvel’s ability to surprise even its cast members.
The MCU’s current phase has introduced some incredible characters, but without fan-favorite Avengers anchoring the franchise, some audiences have drifted away. Robert Downey Jr.’s Iron Man and Chris Evans’ Captain America weren’t just heroes—they were the emotional core of the first three phases. Reintroducing them, even with a twist, feels like Marvel acknowledging that the heart of its universe matters.
Downey Jr.’s new role as Doctor Doom is already generating major buzz. Fans are intrigued by the idea of seeing him as a villain, which adds a fresh dimension to his MCU legacy. And while Sebastian Stan stayed cautious about mentioning Chris Evans directly, the rumors of his return are hard to ignore.
The real question is whether this move can bring back the excitement that Marvel’s earlier films created. Some fans worry that these returns may outshine newer heroes, but others see it as a way to bridge the gap between the old and the new. With the multiverse as a narrative tool, the potential for creative storytelling is limitless.
Disney’s decision to bring back familiar faces shows that they’re not afraid to listen to their audience. It’s a reminder that while innovation is important, sometimes the best way forward is to reconnect with what made audiences fall in love in the first place. If Sebastian Stan’s excitement is anything to go by, Avengers: Doomsday could be the nostalgic yet groundbreaking adventure fans have been hoping for.
