The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has undergone significant transformations since the climactic events of Avengers: Endgame, with the notable absence of a formal Avengers team. In the wake left by Iron Man and Captain America, new heroes have emerged to fill the void. However, fans will have to wait until the culmination of Phase 6 to witness the Avengers reunite in Avengers: Doomsday in 2026 and Avengers: Secret Wars in 2027. Here's a look at the characters likely to assemble in these pivotal films.

Who Will Be the New Avengers in the MCU?

15 ImagesWong

In the absence of Tony Stark and Steve Rogers, Benedict Wong's character, Wong, has become the linchpin holding the MCU together through Phases 4 and 5. Wong's appearances span across 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's role in defending the world against emerging threats is crucial. When the Avengers reunite, Wong will undoubtedly be central to bringing the team together.

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 Destin Daniel Cretton initially set to direct Avengers: The Kang Dynasty, Shang-Chi's future in the MCU looks bright. His mastery over the mystical Ten Rings makes him a valuable asset, and the mid-credits scene in his film hints at a deeper mystery that could unfold in Avengers: Doomsday.

Doctor Strange

Although Wong now holds the title of Sorcerer Supreme, Stephen Strange remains a vital figure for the Avengers in Phase 6. His experience with magic and the multiverse is invaluable. Currently, Strange is assisting Charlize Theron's Clea in another universe to address the Incursion problem. While a new Doctor Strange sequel before Doomsday seems unlikely, the tease from Multiverse of Madness suggests his significant involvement in the upcoming battle against Robert Downey, Jr.'s Doctor Doom.

Captain America

No Avengers team feels complete without Captain America. With Chris Evans' Steve Rogers retiring, Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson has taken up the mantle in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. His journey continues in Captain America: Brave New World in 2025, where he will likely play a key role in reassembling the Avengers. President Ross, portrayed by Harrison Ford, proposes a government-sanctioned team, but despite their eventual fallout, Sam emerges ready to lead. His struggle to live up to Steve's legacy will be a central theme in Doomsday and Secret Wars.

War Machine

Don Cheadle's War Machine is stepping into a more prominent role in the Multiverse Saga, especially with his upcoming solo venture, Armor Wars. This film builds on the revelations from Secret Invasion about Rhodey's Skrull replacement. Before Armor Wars, War Machine is expected to fill the void left by Iron Man, bringing his military expertise and firepower to the Avengers.

Ironheart

Dominique Thorne's Riri Williams is set to become the MCU's new Iron Man. Introduced in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Riri's ingenuity and armor-building skills will be further explored in her 2025 series, Ironheart. By the time Avengers: Doomsday arrives, Ironheart will be a fully established hero, vital for facing formidable foes like Doctor Doom.

Spider-Man

Tom Holland's Peter Parker remains a cornerstone of the MCU, despite his choice to embrace a more low-key existence as a Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man. His role in Doomsday and Secret Wars seems assured, though the complication of the world forgetting his identity adds intrigue. Some speculate Wong might still know Spider-Man's secret, providing a potential way to reintegrate him into the team.

She-Hulk

While Mark Ruffalo's Hulk may take a backseat, Tatiana Maslany's She-Hulk is poised to become the Avengers' new powerhouse. With the brains of a top attorney, strength rivaling her cousin, and a knack for breaking the fourth wall, She-Hulk is a perfect fit for the team.

The Marvels

Captain Marvel's team from The Marvels, featuring Brie Larson's Carol Danvers, Teyonah Parris' Monica Rambeau, and Iman Vellani's Kamala Khan, is likely to play a significant role in the upcoming Avengers films. Captain Marvel is a strong contender for leadership, while Monica's mysterious disappearance and Kamala's interest in the Young Avengers will add depth to the narrative.

How Many Avengers Is Too Many?

With the potential for over 20 heroes, the new Avengers lineup could be expansive. This mirrors Jonathan Hickman's comics, which have inspired the MCU. The Avengers might operate with multiple teams, akin to the New York and West Coast Avengers in the comics, to manage various threats effectively.

Hawkeye & Hawkguy

Despite Jeremy Renner's Hawkeye contemplating retirement, his recovery from a serious accident suggests a return in Avengers: Doomsday. Hailee Steinfeld's Kate Bishop, approached by Kamala in a post-credits scene of The Marvels, is also expected to join the ranks.

Thor

As one of the remaining original Avengers, Thor, played by Chris Hemsworth, is a natural fit for the new team. Thor: Love and Thunder positions him well to defend Earth, possibly with his adopted daughter Love. The Secret Wars comic suggests multiple Thors, hinting at a Thor Corps in the MCU.

The Ant-Man Family

Given their involvement in Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania and the Quantum Realm's importance in the Multiverse Saga, the Ant-Man family, including Scott Lang, Hope Van Dyne, and Cassie Lang, are likely to play significant roles in the upcoming Avengers films.

Star-Lord

With Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 leaving Chris Pratt's Star-Lord back on Earth, his involvement in Avengers: Doomsday seems imminent. Whether he will follow orders or try to lead remains to be seen.

Black Panther

Although Chadwick Boseman's Black Panther was not officially an Avenger, Wakanda's resources and technology were crucial in previous battles. Letitia Wright's Shuri now dons the suit, and Winston Duke's M'Baku, as the new monarch, will likely continue Wakanda's support for 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.