Benedict Cumberbatch, renowned for his portrayal of Doctor Strange in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, has confirmed that his character will not be part of the upcoming film Avengers: Doomsday. Instead, Cumberbatch revealed to Variety that Doctor Strange will play a "central role" in the subsequent installment, Avengers: Secret Wars. In a candid moment, Cumberbatch exclaimed "f**k it" after accidentally dropping this spoiler, further elaborating on his character's significance in the MCU's future.

"He’s quite central to where things might go," Cumberbatch stated, hinting at the pivotal role Doctor Strange will have in shaping the narrative of Avengers: Secret Wars. Additionally, he disclosed plans for a third standalone Doctor Strange film, expressing enthusiasm about the creative discussions surrounding its development. "They are very open to discussing where we go next," he said. "Who do you want to write and direct the next one? What part of the comic lore do you want to explore so that Strange can keep evolving? He’s a very rich character to play. He’s a complex, contradictory, troubled human who’s got these extraordinary abilities, so there’s potent stuff to mess about with."

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Regarding his absence from Avengers: Doomsday, Cumberbatch explained that it's due to "the character not aligning with this part of the story." This upcoming Avengers film will feature Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom and reportedly Chris Evans as well, though details remain scarce. The film is being directed by the former Avengers directors, the Russo Brothers, and will continue to explore the multiverse, with Hayley Atwell's Agent Carter also set to appear.

Phase 6 of the MCU will commence 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.