The future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is taking shape, with directors Anthony and Joe Russo hinting at a significant departure from their Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame work. In an interview with Omelete, the Russo brothers described Avengers 5 and 6 (Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars) as a "new beginning," laying the groundwork for Phase 7 and beyond. Joe Russo emphasized the shift from concluding a narrative arc to initiating a new one: "We told an ending story [with Infinity War and Endgame], and now we're going to tell a beginning story."
Their return to the MCU stemmed from a fresh creative idea, Anthony Russo explained. This new concept, coupled with exciting collaborations—both familiar and new—fueled their enthusiasm for the project. He acknowledged the considerable pressure surrounding Doomsday, aiming to revitalize theatrical viewership post-pandemic. Interestingly, the decision to bring back Robert Downey Jr. originated with Marvel producer Kevin Feige, following a period of initial resistance from the Russos due to a lack of a suitable storyline. Only after writer Steve McFeely presented a compelling idea did they change their minds.
The Next Generation of Avengers
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Joe Russo offered a cryptic clue about the films' direction: "We love villains who think they’re the heroes of their own stories...When you have an actor like Robert Downey, you have to create a three-dimensional, well-shaped character for the audience. That’s where a lot of our focus is going.”
Avengers: Doomsday is slated for release on May 1, 2026, with Secret Wars following in May 2027.
Kevin Feige's recent comments further illuminate the MCU's trajectory. He hinted at the introduction of familiar X-Men characters in upcoming films, emphasizing their crucial role in the narrative leading to and beyond Secret Wars. Feige stated that Secret Wars will usher in a "new age of mutants and of the X-Men," a significant development following the appearance of Storm in What If...? Season 3. The addition of three untitled Marvel film projects to the 2028 release schedule further strengthens the likelihood of an X-Men-centric film. Feige confirmed the X-Men's prominent role in the MCU's future, stating they are an "important part" of the post-Secret Wars storyline.
