Benedict Cumberbatch, the actor behind the Marvel Cinematic Universe's Doctor Strange, has revealed that his character will not be joining the next major team-up in Avengers: Doomsday. However, fans can look forward to seeing Doctor Strange take a "central role" in the subsequent film, Avengers: Secret Wars.
In an interview with Variety, Cumberbatch inadvertently let slip this spoiler and, with a candid "f**k it," shared more insights into his character's future. He mentioned that Doctor Strange is set to be "quite central to where things might go" in the MCU, hinting at a significant influence on the storyline. Additionally, he disclosed plans for a third standalone Doctor Strange movie, emphasizing the creative discussions about the direction of the character's narrative. "They are very open to discussing where we go next," Cumberbatch stated, expressing his interest in exploring different aspects of the comic lore to further develop the complex and contradictory nature of Doctor Strange, who possesses extraordinary abilities.
Marvel Cinematic Universe: Every Upcoming Movie and TV Show
18 Images
Regarding his absence from Avengers: Doomsday, Cumberbatch explained it's due to "the character not aligning with this part of the story." This upcoming Avengers film, set to release on May 1, 2026, will feature Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom, and reportedly Chris Evans as well, though details remain scarce. The film will be directed by former Avengers directors, the Russo Brothers, and will continue exploring the multiverse, with Hayley Atwell's Agent Carter also slated to appear.
In the nearer future, Phase 6 of the MCU will commence with The Fantastic Four: First Steps this July. Following Avengers: Doomsday, fans can anticipate Avengers: Secret Wars, set to premiere on May 7, 2027, where Doctor Strange is expected to play a pivotal role.
