MCU Confirms New Avengers Lead, Doomsday Expected December 2026

Marvel Studios is ramping up excitement for its Phase 6 Multiverse Saga with three major upcoming films: Spider-Man: Brand New Day (2026), Avengers: Doomsday (2026), and Avengers: Secret Wars (2027). Avengers: Doomsday will mark the first Avengers film since Endgame and is expected to feature multiversal chaos, high stakes, and a large ensemble cast, possibly including alternate hero versions. A key Thunderbolts member, Yelena Belova, will travel with Sam Wilson's Avengers team to another universe but will remain separate from the team, preserving the Thunderbolts' narrative independence following their rebranding as the New Avengers. The teasing of Doctor Doom in the Fantastic Four: First Steps post-credits scene has been criticized for lacking impact, especially compared to past MCU villain buildup, leaving some fans less hyped for his appearance in Doomsday. Meanwhile, Chris Hemsworth clarified that his YouTube video thanking fans was not meant to imply Thor’s death in the upcoming Avengers films, despite fan speculation fueled by the tone and timing of the video. Overall, these developments set the stage for a sprawling multiverse confrontation culminating in Secret Wars, with expectations for new alliances, returning favorites, and legacy characters from across Marvel’s universe.