Who Are Marvel's New Avengers in Avengers: Doomsday and Secret Wars?
The MCU has dramatically shifted since *Avengers: Endgame*, notably with the absence of a core Avengers team. New heroes are emerging to fill the void left by Iron Man and Captain America, but a full-fledged Avengers movie remains some time away. Even *Captain America: Brave New World* doesn't fully reunite Earth's Mightiest Heroes. It's not until Phase 6, with *Avengers: Doomsday* (2026) and *Avengers: Secret Wars* (2027), that we'll see the team's complete reformation. So, who will answer the call? Let's explore the likely candidates for Phase 6's Avengers roster.
Who Will Be the New Avengers in the MCU?
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Wong
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With Tony Stark and Steve Rogers absent, Benedict Wong's Wong has become a pivotal figure in Phases 4 and 5, acting as a unifying force. His appearances span numerous post-*Endgame* projects, including *Spider-Man: No Way Home*, *Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings*, and *Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness*. Let's not forget his memorable friendship with Madisynn in *She-Hulk*. We've arguably entered a "Phase Wong," as he's inherited the Sorcerer Supreme mantle, proactively defending the world. His presence in a reassembled Avengers team is almost certain.
Shang-Chi
Simu Liu's Shang-Chi is a strong contender for the Phase 6 Avengers. His summoning by Wong at the end of *Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings* is a clear indication. Furthermore, Destin Daniel Cretton's initial involvement with *Avengers: The Kang Dynasty* (before directorial changes) suggests significant plans for Shang-Chi's future. His mastery of the Ten Rings makes him a valuable asset, and the mid-credits scene in *The Legend of the Ten Rings* hints at a larger mystery potentially relevant to *Avengers: Doomsday*.
Doctor Strange
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While Wong is Sorcerer Supreme, Stephen Strange will likely remain crucial to the Phase 6 Avengers. His experience and expertise in magic and the multiverse are invaluable. Currently assisting Clea in another universe with the Incursion problem, a *Multiverse of Madness* tease suggests his involvement in the Avengers' battle against Doctor Doom.
Captain America
No Avengers roster is complete without Captain America. While Chris Evans' Steve Rogers has retired, Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson has taken up the mantle. *The Falcon and the Winter Soldier* showed Sam's reluctant acceptance, and *Captain America: Brave New World* details his evolution. *Brave New World* positions Sam as instrumental in reuniting the team, despite initial friction with President Ross. Sam's journey to becoming a team leader will likely be explored further in *Doomsday* and *Secret Wars*.
War Machine
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Don Cheadle's War Machine, previously a supporting character, is emerging as a solo hero. *Armor Wars*, focusing on Rhodey preventing Tony Stark's technology from misuse, builds upon *Secret Invasion*, revealing a Skrull impersonator. Before *Armor Wars*, War Machine's inclusion in the Avengers seems likely, filling the Iron Man void with experience and firepower.
Ironheart
Dominique Thorne's Riri Williams is a strong candidate to become the MCU's new Iron Man. Debuting in *Black Panther: Wakanda Forever*, she showcased her armor and intellect. Her solo series, *Ironheart*, will further establish her identity. By *Avengers: Doomsday*, she'll likely be a fully integrated hero, providing essential brainpower alongside her advanced technology.
Spider-Man
Tom Holland's Spider-Man remains a flagship MCU hero, despite choosing anonymity. His involvement in *Doomsday* and *Secret Wars* seems probable, barring further conflicts between Marvel Studios and Sony. The world's amnesia regarding Spider-Man's identity presents a challenge, but some fans speculate Wong's knowledge of his secret identity could facilitate his return.
She-Hulk
While Mark Ruffalo's Hulk has been an Avenger, his future role may be more supportive. Tatiana Maslany's She-Hulk, however, is a potential powerhouse Avenger. Her intelligence, strength, and unique personality make her a strong contender.
The Marvels
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*The Marvels* introduced a team comprising Brie Larson's Captain Marvel, Teyonah Parris' Monica Rambeau, and Iman Vellani's Kamala Khan. Their roles in *Doomsday* and *Secret Wars* are highly anticipated. Captain Marvel is a strong leadership candidate, Monica's mysterious situation could be pivotal, and Kamala, while potentially focusing on the Young Avengers, will likely join the main team.
How Many Avengers Is Too Many?
The potential Avengers roster for *Doomsday* is extensive. Compared to the original six, a much larger team is possible, drawing inspiration from the expansive comic book rosters. Multiple teams or task forces operating concurrently could be a solution to managing such a large cast.
Hawkeye & Hawkguy
Archery skills are valuable, and the Avengers have two archers: Jeremy Renner's Hawkeye, despite a recent accident, may return, and Hailee Steinfeld's Kate Bishop, hinted at joining the Avengers in *The Marvels*, is a strong candidate.
Thor
Thor, potentially the last remaining original Avenger in an active role, is well-positioned to continue. *Thor: Love and Thunder* sets him up for future involvement, potentially alongside his daughter, Love. The *Secret Wars* comic's Thor Corps suggests multiple Thors might appear.
The Ant-Man Family
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Given *Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania*'s introduction of Kang, their continued importance in *Doomsday*, even without Kang as the main antagonist, seems likely. The Quantum Realm's significance and Ant-Man's previous Avengers experience suggest the inclusion of Wasp and Stature.
Star-Lord
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The Guardians of the Galaxy's role remains uncertain, but Star-Lord's return to Earth in *Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3* suggests potential involvement in *Doomsday*. His leadership style and willingness to answer to others will be key.
Black Panther
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While Chadwick Boseman's Black Panther's Avenger status was debatable, Wakanda's importance and resources make Shuri's continued contribution likely, along with M'Baku's role as the new monarch.
Who should lead the new Avengers team? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts!
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For more on the MCU's future, explore potential casting of Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom and review upcoming Marvel projects.
Note - this article was originally published on July 28, 2022 and updated on February 18, 2025 with the latest MCU developments.
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