Only One Original Avenger Doesn’t Have A Replacement In The MCU (Yet)

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In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, following the end of the Infinity Saga and the exit of several key characters, only one original Avenger is still without a successor. While new heroes have emerged to carry on the legacies of the MCU’s legendary figures, there are rumors that some original superheroes might reappear in Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars. However, it’s been suggested that Phase 6 could mark the final adventure for a hero who currently doesn’t have a stand-in.

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), characters such as Iron Man, Captain America, Black Widow, Hawkeye, and the Hulk already have successors or legacy heroes. However, Thor is yet to find someone who can fill his shoes when he eventually departs. This lack of a worthy replacement for Thor might pose a challenge for Marvel in the future, as Chris Hemsworth’s contract with the MCU may expire following “Doomsday” and “Secret Wars.” Although several potential candidates have been introduced within the MCU, none have been adequately developed to assume the mantle of the God of Thunder.

Thor Doesn’t Have a Real Legacy Hero in the MCU Yet

Since 2011, Chris Hemsworth has played the role of Thor Odinson in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). He’s since emerged as one of the key figures in the franchise, being the only superhero to have four standalone films and appearing in all four Avengers movies. Hemsworth was also the first actor confirmed for the 2026 film, “Avengers: Doomsday,” which will be his return to the MCU after his controversial journey in the 2022 movie, “Thor: Love and Thunder.” The upcoming film may introduce a successor for Thor in the MCU, as he’s currently the only original Avenger without a successor character.

In simple terms, the latest Marvel Studios’ Ironheart series has made Dominique Thorne’s character, Riri Williams, the new Ironheart, taking over from Tony Stark as Iron Man. Characters like John Walker, Bucky Barnes, Sam Wilson, who portray Captain America in the MCU, are carrying on Steve Rogers’ influence. Similarly, Yelena Belova is taking over the role of Black Widow from Natasha Romanoff, Kate Bishop has replaced Clint Barton’s Hawkeye, and She-Hulk, who continues Bruce Banner’s legacy, is played by Jennifer Walter.

If Chris Hemsworth were to depart from the Marvel Cinematic Universe following “Doomsday” and “Secret Wars”, no character has yet been officially designated as his successor or heir apparent. Given Thor’s significant strength and reliability within the MCU, it would be surprising to see him replaced by a newcomer. Hemsworth’s hints about leaving have fueled such speculation, but this situation leaves Marvel with an open challenge to find a worthy replacement for the mighty Thor.

Who Could Replace Thor in the MCU?

Among the potential candidates to step into Thor’s role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), another incarnation of Thor seems the most likely. Jane Foster’s Mighty Thor (portrayed by Natalie Portman) seemed a fitting successor after her introduction in “Thor: Love and Thunder.” However, in this phase 4 film, she succumbed to cancer following her collaboration with Thor against Gorr the God Butcher (Christian Bale). The post-credits scene of “Love & Thunder” showed Foster entering Valhalla, which could imply a possible return and potential role as Thor’s successor in the future of the MCU.

In addition to Jane Foster, Thor gained a new ally named Love (played by India Hemsworth) in the movie “Love & Thunder”. This ally is actually Gorr’s biological daughter and has been brought back to life with the powers of the cosmic entity Eternity. She is one of the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s most powerful new characters, but she hasn’t appeared since “Love & Thunder”. It’s possible that in future movies like “Doomsday” and “Secret Wars”, Love could join forces with Thor again. This might help develop her character further, preparing her to possibly assume Thor’s responsibilities if he should leave.

Instead of sticking with Thor’s character as the main God of Thunder, Marvel Studios might opt for a fresh start by introducing a new hero who hasn’t appeared on screen yet. Characters like Beta Ray Bill, who was a powerful hero in Marvel Comics and wielded Stormbreaker, could potentially take over. We may also see Brett Goldstein reprise his role as Hercules from the mid-credits scene of Love & Thunder, further expanding the pantheon of godly heroes in the MCU. Additionally, Balder the Brave, who was hinted at in Loki, could finally make an entrance. It’s uncertain who will become Thor’s successor, but it seems likely that we’ll meet his replacement hero soon.

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2025-06-25 20:11