Since the monumental events of Avengers: Endgame, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has undergone significant transformations, notably the dissolution of the Avengers team. As the MCU continues to evolve, new heroes have emerged to fill the void left by the likes of Iron Man and Captain America. However, fans will have to wait until the end of Phase 6 for a proper Avengers reunion, culminating in the epic showdowns of Avengers: Doomsday in 2026 and Avengers: Secret Wars in 2027. Here's a look at the characters expected to assemble in these pivotal films.

Who Will Be the New Avengers in the MCU?

15 ImagesWong

In the wake of Tony Stark and Steve Rogers' departure, Benedict Wong's character, Wong, has become the linchpin of the MCU in Phases 4 and 5. His presence spans multiple projects, from Spider-Man: No Way Home to Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. His humorous camaraderie with Patty Guggenheim's Madisynn in She-Hulk has also endeared him to fans. As the new Sorcerer Supreme, Wong is tasked with defending the world against emerging threats, making him a crucial figure in rallying the Avengers for their next assembly.

Shang-Chi

Simu Liu's Shang-Chi is poised to join the Avengers in Phase 6, especially after being summoned by Wong at the end of Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. With his mastery over the mystical Ten Rings, Shang-Chi is a valuable asset to the team. The mid-credits scene in his film hints at a deeper mystery surrounding these artifacts, which could play a significant role in Avengers: Doomsday.

Doctor Strange

Despite Wong's ascension to Sorcerer Supreme, Stephen Strange remains a vital part of the Avengers. His expertise in magic and the multiverse is indispensable. Currently aiding Charlize Theron's Clea in another universe to address the Incursion problem, Strange's return is anticipated to be pivotal in the battle against Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom in Avengers: Doomsday.

Captain America

No Avengers team feels complete without Captain America. With Chris Evans' Steve Rogers retired, Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson has taken up the mantle. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier showcased Sam's journey to accepting this role, and Captain America: Brave New World will further explore his evolution. Sam's leadership will be crucial in reuniting the Avengers, despite his initial reluctance and eventual falling-out with Harrison Ford's President Ross over the idea of a government-sanctioned team.

War Machine

Don Cheadle's War Machine is stepping into the spotlight in the Multiverse Saga, with his own film, Armor Wars, focusing on preventing Tony Stark's technology from falling into the wrong hands. As an experienced soldier with significant firepower, War Machine is poised to fill the void left by Iron Man in the Avengers.

Ironheart

Dominique Thorne's Riri Williams, introduced in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, is set to become the MCU's new Iron Man. Her intelligence and innovative armor will be crucial assets for the Avengers, especially against a formidable foe like Doctor Doom.

Spider-Man

Tom Holland's Peter Parker remains a central figure in the MCU, despite choosing to return to his roots as a Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man. The complication of the world forgetting his identity adds intrigue, but Wong's potential knowledge of Spider-Man's secret could facilitate his return to the Avengers.

She-Hulk

While Mark Ruffalo's Hulk may take a backseat, Tatiana Maslany's She-Hulk is emerging as a powerhouse. With her legal acumen, strength, and fourth-wall-breaking charm, She-Hulk is a natural fit for the Avengers.

The Marvels

Captain Marvel's team in The Marvels, including Brie Larson's Carol Danvers, Teyonah Parris' Monica Rambeau, and Iman Vellani's Kamala Khan, is expected to play a significant role in the upcoming Avengers films. Captain Marvel's leadership qualities make her a strong candidate to lead the new Avengers, while Kamala's enthusiasm for superhero teams suggests her involvement.

How Many Avengers Is Too Many?

With the potential for a large roster in Avengers: Doomsday, the MCU may follow the comics' example of having multiple teams or a rotating cast to manage the narrative effectively. The original Avengers team was smaller, but the MCU could expand to accommodate a broader range of heroes.

Hawkeye & Hawkguy

Despite Jeremy Renner's Hawkeye contemplating retirement, his recent recovery and confidence in returning for Avengers: Doomsday suggest his continued involvement. Hailee Steinfeld's Kate Bishop, seen being approached by Kamala in The Marvels, is likely to join the Avengers as well.

Thor

As one of the last original Avengers, Thor's role in the new team is almost guaranteed. Thor: Love and Thunder sets him up perfectly to defend Earth once more, possibly alongside his adopted daughter, Love. The Thor Corps from the 2015 Secret Wars comic could also play a part in Avengers: Secret Wars.

The Ant-Man Family

Given their involvement with Kang in Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, the Ant-Man family, including Scott Lang, Hope van Dyne, and Cassie Lang, are expected to have significant roles in Avengers: Doomsday. The Quantum Realm's importance in the Multiverse Saga underscores their relevance.

Star-Lord

With Chris Pratt's Star-Lord returning to Earth in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, his involvement in Avengers: Doomsday seems likely. His leadership skills and connection to Earth could make him a valuable addition to the team.

Black Panther

While Chadwick Boseman's Black Panther was never officially an Avenger, Wakanda's resources and Shuri's new role as Black Panther make their involvement crucial. Winston Duke's M'Baku, as the new monarch, adds another layer to Wakanda's potential contributions to the Avengers.

Who's on your must-have list of Avengers for Phase 6? Who should lead the team? Cast your vote in our poll and let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

Note - this article was originally published on July 28, 2022 and updated on February 18, 2025 with the latest MCU developments.