15 MCU Actors Confirmed to Appear In Both ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ And ‘Secret Wars’

Marvel stunned fans at the 2024 San Diego Comic-Con by revealing Robert Downey Jr. will return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but not as Iron Man. He’ll be playing the villain Doctor Doom! This sets the stage for Avengers: Doomsday, which will be the epic conclusion to the Multiverse Saga, with Doom threatening the entire universe. To stop him, heroes from different timelines will have to team up. With directors Anthony and Joe Russo – who previously directed Infinity War and Endgame – at the helm, fans are anticipating huge battles and chaos across multiple realities. And the story doesn’t end there – Avengers: Secret Wars, coming in December 2027, promises an even larger finale, inspired by classic comic book storylines featuring heroes fighting each other on a world called Battleworld.

These movies feature a large cast, but only a few actors were confirmed to appear in both. The main actors were revealed through live broadcasts, interviews, and official statements. Robert Downey Jr. plays the villain, and Earth’s strongest heroes, along with other powerful groups, will team up to fight against him.

MCU Stars Featuring in Both Doomsday and Secret Wars

Robert Downey Jr. (Doctor Doom)

The biggest shock in Marvel Cinematic Universe history may have happened when Robert Downey Jr. appeared at Comic-Con, not as Iron Man, but as Doctor Doom. Kevin Feige, head of Marvel Studios, has confirmed that Downey Jr. will be the main villain in both the Doomsday and Secret Wars movies. Many believe RDJ is taking on the role of the Multiverse Saga’s biggest threat, even surpassing Thanos, and will portray a nuanced, complex villain – one the directors, the Russos, say will feel like the hero of his own story.

Casting Robert Downey Jr. as the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s next big villain could be a brilliant move, if he pulls it off in the upcoming two-part finale. Reports suggest he’s been collaborating with the directors to create a fresh and original history for this version of Doctor Doom, making him stand out from previous interpretations.

Benedict Cumberbatch (Doctor Strange)

As a fan, I truly believe Benedict Cumberbatch’s Doctor Strange is the perfect counterpoint to Doom. He’s absolutely vital to these movies, especially with his magical skills and understanding of the multiverse. Cumberbatch himself has said that Stephen Strange is going to be right at the heart of what happens, particularly in the upcoming Secret Wars – which honestly, makes me even more excited!

Doctor Strange has a major role in the Secret Wars comic book event, acting as the law enforcer on Battleworld, and fans are hoping to see this reflected in the movies. Because he’s experienced the multiverse more than anyone, Doctor Strange’s knowledge will be crucial for the Avengers as different realities begin to fall apart.

Pedro Pascal (Reed Richards/Mr. Fantastic)

Pedro Pascal plays Reed Richards, the leader of the Fantastic Four, and he’s central to the upcoming storyline. The entire Fantastic Four family will move immediately from their introductory film, The Fantastic Four: First Steps, into the Avengers: Doomsday movie. The end of First Steps actually teased what Victor von Doom is planning. Pascal’s portrayal of Reed Richards brings a sense of experience and intelligence to the character, establishing him as the main scientific competitor to Robert Downey Jr.’s Victor von Doom.

I’ve always been fascinated by the rivalry between Reed Richards and Doctor Doom – it’s legendary! From what I understand, Pascal is going to be central to the upcoming Doomsday event, leading the effort to save the multiverse from collapsing. And it sounds like things will get even more intense in Secret Wars, where he’ll have to deal with the fallout from Doom taking over, maybe even being one of the only ones smart enough to strategize against him as the ruler of Battleworld.

Vanessa Kirby (Sue Storm/Invisible Woman)

Vanessa Kirby’s portrayal of Sue Storm is central to the Fantastic Four, providing the team’s emotional center. She’s also incredibly powerful, as shown in their battle with Galactus in First Steps. After being introduced in a story set in the 1960s, Kirby will continue as Sue Storm, bringing her into the larger, modern-day conflict across the multiverse. Her presence in future films confirms that the Fantastic Four will be a key focus of Phase 6, connecting different realities and driving the overall story.

Joseph Quinn (Johnny Storm/Human Torch)

Joseph Quinn, who became famous for his role in Stranger Things, is quickly making a name for himself in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Johnny Storm in Fantastic Four: First Steps. He’s confirmed to appear in both Doomsday and Secret Wars and was thrilled when the news was announced. His portrayal of the Human Torch is expected to bring the strength and vitality the Avengers will desperately need as they face a crisis across multiple universes.

Quinn loved working with Robert Downey Jr. and the rest of the cast, and was impressed by how large the production was. Throughout the two movies, Johnny Storm will grow from an inexperienced adventurer into a seasoned and resilient survivor.

Ebon Moss-Bachrach (Ben Grimm/The Thing)

Ebon Moss-Bachrach completes the main cast as Ben Grimm, also known as The Thing. He’s already appeared in previews for the upcoming film, confirming The Thing will be a key player from the start. Moss-Bachrach’s performance emphasizes the emotional core beneath the character’s tough exterior, particularly his sadness over losing everything he knows.

I’m so excited to see The Thing really get put through his paces against Doctor Doom’s army! It’s awesome that actor Jamie Bell is signed on for both movies, which pretty much confirms that Ben Grimm makes it through whatever craziness happens with reality collapsing and will be fighting on Battleworld. That’s a huge relief and means we’ll get to see more of him!

Anthony Mackie (Sam Wilson/Captain America)

Anthony Mackie’s Sam Wilson has officially taken on the role of Captain America and will lead the next team of Avengers. He’ll be at the forefront of the upcoming storylines, Doomsday and Secret Wars, continuing the path set after the events of Endgame. As the new Captain America, Sam Wilson will be responsible for bringing the heroes together to fight against the powerful threat of Doom.

In an early 2025 interview with Deadline, Mackie described his character as the link between the original Avengers and the new generation, essentially acting as the team’s recruiter. After the events of Brave New World, Sam Wilson will be thrust into a global, and eventually multiversal, crisis. His leadership will be crucial in keeping the team united as everything changes around them.

Florence Pugh (Yelena Belova)

As a huge Marvel fan, I’ve been so impressed with Florence Pugh’s Yelena Belova. She’s really become a central figure in the MCU, going from a supporting role to someone the franchise seems to be building around. I’m especially excited because she’s confirmed to be a key player in the next Avengers movies as the leader of the Thunderbolts team! Honestly, with her sarcastic humor and incredible fighting abilities, she feels like the perfect person to carry on the Black Widow’s legacy.

Yelena’s role is especially compelling because it introduces a more complex and morally gray element to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Florence Pugh’s character will guide a team of flawed individuals into a challenging fight, pushing her to become a genuine hero in the process.

Sebastian Stan (Bucky Barnes)

Bucky Barnes, also known as the Winter Soldier, will return in two upcoming Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) films, marking Sebastian Stan’s 11th and 12th appearances in the franchise. He’ll be leading the Thunderbolts as their strategist, and his skills as a Super Soldier will be crucial as the heroes face powerful enemies with advanced technology and magic in both Doomsday and Secret Wars.

Simu Liu (Shang-Chi)

Simu Liu has confirmed that Shang-Chi will have a key role in the upcoming Avengers finale, even though fans are still waiting for his own solo movie. He recently shared with People that he’s involved in both the Doomsday and Secret Wars films. There’s been speculation that the Ten Rings will be a crucial element in these movies, suggesting Shang-Chi’s part could be bigger than expected.

Shang-Chi is an incredibly skilled martial artist with access to powerful weapons, making him one of the few heroes who can effectively fight Doom’s strongest soldiers. Simu Liu has really enjoyed his time filming, making friends with the cast and even getting a visit to Robert Downey Jr.’s unique set piece for the Doomsday project. Fans are eager to see what he brings to his next Marvel movie.

Letitia Wright (Shuri/Black Panther)

Letitia Wright has confirmed she’ll reprise her role as Shuri, taking on the mantle of Black Panther in the next two Marvel movies. As Wakanda’s leader, Shuri will utilize the country’s advanced vibranium technology and her own scientific expertise to face off against Doctor Doom. Wright also revealed that filming for Secret Wars is her next project.

Shuri is facing her most difficult challenge yet in the upcoming story arc. The new trailer for Doomsday reveals that her homeland is already suffering from the widespread destruction caused by Doctor Doom’s actions across different realities. She has even admitted that a leader must prepare their people for the possibility of death.

Wyatt Russell (John Walker/US Agent)

John Walker, the complex character portrayed by Wyatt Russell, will be back for the Thunderbolts storyline, which will connect to the Avengers movies. Russell’s portrayal brings an unpredictable and intense quality to the team, and they’ll face major challenges as the multiverse falls apart. Walker is determined to prove he’s a true hero, and that drive will likely push him to take dangerous chances when battling Doom.

Although John Walker doesn’t share the same strong sense of right and wrong as Sam Wilson, his enhanced strength as a Super Soldier makes him a valuable asset to the Avengers. With actor Carl Russell confirmed for both upcoming films, it’s clear John Walker will play a significant role in the events of Secret Wars.

David Harbour (Red Guardian)

David Harbour’s portrayal of Alexei Shostakov, the Red Guardian, adds both strength and emotional depth to the team. The character is set to move from the Thunderbolts series into future Avengers movies, giving him the chance to fight with—or against—some of the world’s biggest heroes, which is something he’s always wanted. Harbour’s performance also brings welcome humor to what’s expected to be a very serious storyline.

Although he’s funny, Alexei is incredibly strong and will be a major asset in big action scenes. His relationship with Yelena Belova will probably be a central emotional connection for both of them as everything falls apart.

Hannah John-Kamen (Ava Starr/Ghost)

Hannah John-Kamen is back as Ghost, a character with a special ability to phase through objects, making her incredibly valuable in the upcoming multiversal conflict. After being absent from the Marvel Cinematic Universe since Ant-Man and the Wasp, Ava Starr has returned, joining the team in Thunderbolts. Now, she’ll once again use her skills to help fight against Doom in the next Avengers movies.

Hayley Atwell (Captain Carter)

A recent article in The Hollywood Reporter confirmed that Hayley Atwell will be returning to the Marvel Cinematic Universe in a significant way. The report details a substantial agreement for Atwell to play Peggy Carter in both Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars. This indicates that Atwell will have a major role in concluding the Multiverse Saga, moving beyond smaller appearances to become a key player.

The first teaser for the new Avengers movie hinted at a strong emotional return for a beloved character. The footage showed Chris Evans’ Steve Rogers back at the home he shared at the end of Endgame, and also depicted him holding a baby – potentially his child with Peggy Carter. This suggests Peggy might play a major part in the upcoming film.

2026-01-29 06:39