The Marvel Cinematic Universe is officially entering a transformative new phase, and fans are already bracing for changes that could redefine the franchise for years to come. Disney has now confirmed a major milestone: audiences will get their first official look at Avengers: Doomsday a full year before the film’s release.
Set to arrive in 2026, Avengers: Doomsday is shaping up to be one of Marvel Studios’ most ambitious projects to date. The film reunites blockbuster directors Anthony and Joe Russo, the creative forces behind Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame. Their return signals a dramatic shift in direction, steering the MCU away from the previously planned Kang-centric storyline and toward a darker, more formidable threat.
That threat is Doctor Doom, with Robert Downey Jr. making a stunning and highly anticipated return to the MCU in the iconic villain role. The casting alone has sent shockwaves through the fandom, marking a bold reinvention for one of Marvel’s most recognizable stars.
Marvel kicked off 2025 with a viral “chair reveal” livestream that unveiled a massive ensemble cast. Returning MCU favorites include Sebastian Stan, Paul Rudd, Simu Liu, Florence Pugh, Tom Hiddleston, Chris Hemsworth, Kelsey Grammer, and James Marsden. The reveal also confirmed the long-rumored return of Fox-era X-Men characters, with Ian McKellen, Rebecca Romijn, Patrick Stewart, and Alan Cumming officially joining the MCU—cementing the long-awaited merging of Marvel’s cinematic universes.
Avengers: Doomsday trailer is confirmed to be attatched on Avatar 3. pic.twitter.com/zpSYe4bopQ
— MikeOnTheGrid (@MikeTheProgram) December 11, 2025
As excitement surged, several familiar faces addressed their absence from the cast list. Mark Ruffalo, who has played Hulk since 2012, joked on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon that Marvel decided to cut him before he could spoil the next film. While not appearing in Doomsday, Ruffalo is confirmed for Spider-Man: Brand New Day in 2026.
Brie Larson has also remained intentionally vague about her future as Captain Marvel. When asked directly about Avengers: Doomsday, she offered a cryptic response, fueling speculation—especially after posting a mysterious image featuring the words “AVENGE” and “DANVERS.” Fans believe the unresolved ending of The Marvels (2023) could tie directly into Doomsday’s plot.
Disney has confirmed that the first official teaser for Avengers: Doomsday will debut alongside Avatar: Fire and Ash in 2025. While the move guarantees massive exposure, it has also sparked debate, as fans may need an Avatar ticket to witness Marvel’s next epic beginning.
