Marvel Star Benedict Cumberbatch Says Doctor Strange Is Skipping Avengers Doomsday But Is a 'Central' Part of Secret Wars

Benedict Cumberbatch reveals Doctor Strange's pivotal role in future MCU installments. While skipping Avengers: Doomsday, the Sorcerer Supreme will be "quite central" to the sequel, Avengers: Secret Wars, according to Cumberbatch's interview with Variety. He even let slip a spoiler before playfully exclaiming "f*** it!"

Cumberbatch further hinted at a third standalone Doctor Strange film, expressing Marvel's openness to exploring various comic book storylines to further develop the character. He highlighted the inherent complexity and contradictions within Strange, making him a compelling and multifaceted character to portray.

Upcoming Marvel Cinematic Universe Projects

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Doctor Strange's absence from Avengers: Doomsday is attributed to a narrative incompatibility, Cumberbatch explained. This upcoming film, directed by the Russo Brothers, will feature Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom and reportedly Chris Evans, continuing the multiverse storyline and potentially including Hayley Atwell's Agent Carter.

Phase 6 of the MCU commences with The Fantastic Four: First Steps this July. Avengers: Doomsday is slated for release on May 1, 2026, followed by Avengers: Secret Wars on May 7, 2027.