Chris Evans Confirms No Return to MCU for Avengers

Chris Evans, the actor who brought Captain America to life in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), has firmly denied rumors of his return in the upcoming film "Avengers: Doomsday" or any other MCU project. In an interview with Esquire, Evans directly refuted a report from Deadline suggesting he would reprise his role alongside Robert Downey Jr., who played Iron Man and is confirmed to return. Evans stated, "That’s not true, though. This always happens. I mean, it happens every couple years, ever since Endgame. I’ve just stopped responding to it. Yeah, no. Happily retired."

Adding to the confusion, Anthony Mackie, who succeeded Evans as Captain America in the MCU after "Avengers: Endgame," shared with Esquire that he was informed by his manager that Evans would be returning. However, after directly discussing it with Evans, Mackie clarified, "I talked to Chris a few weeks ago and it wasn’t on the table then. At least, he didn’t tell me it was on the table, because I asked him. I was like, ‘You know, they said they’re bringing everyone back for the movie. Are you coming back?’ He goes, ‘Oh, you know, I’m happily retired'."

While Evans has stepped away from his iconic role as Captain America, he did make a cameo as Johnny Storm, his character from the old Fox franchise, in "Deadpool & Wolverine." This was a more light-hearted role compared to his serious portrayal of Steve Rogers.

The MCU is currently navigating through uncertain times, particularly after the departure of actor Jonathan Majors, who played Kang the Conqueror. Majors was set to be the franchise's next major antagonist following his conviction for assault and harassment. This has led Marvel to pivot, announcing that Robert Downey Jr. will take on the role of Doctor Doom, sparking speculation about the return of other original Avengers, though no further confirmations have been made.

In other MCU developments, Benedict Cumberbatch, who plays Doctor Strange, will not appear in "Avengers: Doomsday" but is set to have a "central role" in the subsequent film, "Avengers: Secret Wars." The Russo Brothers, who previously directed several Avengers films, are helming this project, which will continue to explore the multiverse theme. Reports also suggest that Hayley Atwell's Agent Carter will make an appearance, adding to the ensemble.