Big changes are on the horizon for the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) as two original Avengers are set to be recast. According to Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige, this transformation is part of a broader plan as we approach the end of The Multiverse Saga, gearing up for Phase 6, which kicks off this summer with The Fantastic Four: First Steps. This film will introduce Marvel’s iconic First Family into the Avengers-centric franchise, paving the way for an exciting new chapter.
With Phase 6 concluding The Multiverse Saga through highly anticipated films like Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars, speculation is rampant concerning the state of the MCU after 2027. Although some original Avengers remain, Marvel Studios appears intent on rebooting certain beloved characters.
During a recent roundtable press event, Feige hinted that key MCU figures, including the legendary Tony Stark and Steve Rogers, played by Robert Downey Jr. and Chris Evans, respectively, could be recast. Following in the footsteps of other major franchises such as James Bond, Feige noted the challenges and expectations that accompany replacing such iconic roles:
Amy Pascal and David Heyman are now searching for a new James Bond. David Corenswet, the new Superman — he was awesome. That will always be the case. I think it’s hard for anybody to do that when an actor has done such a great role. How are they going to ever replace Sean Connery [as James Bond], right?
Interestingly, Robert Downey Jr. is confirmed to return to the MCU in Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars as Victor von Doom, a.k.a. Doctor Doom. While there have been rumors surrounding Chris Evans’ return for Avengers: Doomsday, the actor has publicly denied any such involvement.
The Implications of Recasting Tony Stark and Steve Rogers
Feige’s comments confirm something fans might have speculated: the recasting of key roles like Steve Rogers and Tony Stark is not unexpected, especially as Avengers: Secret Wars aims to reset the MCU rather than entirely reboot it. These two characters have been cornerstones of the franchise since Phase 1, their legacies echoing throughout The Multiverse Saga.
Given the multiverse concept at Marvel Studios’ disposal, it was never a matter of “if” but “when” they would bring back Tony Stark and Steve Rogers, even if only temporarily. The presence of characters like Sam Wilson, who now dons the mantle of Captain America, and Riri Williams’ Ironheart will coexist alongside potential new interpretations of these beloved heroes.
Anticipating the Future of Iron Man and Captain America
Feige’s hints elevate an intriguing question: how soon can audiences expect to see new actors stepping into the iconic roles of Tony Stark and Steve Rogers? The timeline could range from Phase 7 to even further down the line. Whether these new iterations will become permanent fixtures in the MCU, following the storyline of Avengers: Secret Wars, remains uncertain.
Regardless of who fills these shoes, the legacy left by Downey Jr. and Evans will always resonate, shaping how future actors approach these roles. For now, fans can only speculate and await the moment when the MCU unveils its fresh take on Iron Man and Captain America.
Source: Variety