The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has undergone significant changes since the epic conclusion of Avengers: Endgame. With the departure of iconic heroes like Iron Man and Captain America, the MCU has been navigating a new era without a formal Avengers team. However, the stage is set for a thrilling reunion in Phase 6, culminating with Avengers: Doomsday in 2026 and Avengers: Secret Wars in 2027. Here's a look at the heroes likely to form the new Avengers lineup.

Who Will Be the New Avengers in the MCU?

15 ImagesWong

In the wake of Tony Stark and Steve Rogers' absence, Benedict Wong's character, Wong, has become the cornerstone of the MCU's continuity through Phases 4 and 5. His appearances in Spider-Man: No Way Home, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness underscore his pivotal role. As the new Sorcerer Supreme, Wong is tasked with safeguarding the world from emerging threats, making him a natural leader for the Avengers' reunion.

Shang-Chi

Simu Liu's Shang-Chi is a strong contender for the Avengers in Phase 6. His summoning by Wong in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings and the planned involvement of director Destin Daniel Cretton in Avengers: The Kang Dynasty signal his significant future within the MCU. With the mystical Ten Rings under his command, Shang-Chi is poised to be a valuable asset to the team.

Doctor Strange

Despite Wong's rise to Sorcerer Supreme, Stephen Strange, portrayed by Benedict Cumberbatch, remains a crucial figure for the Avengers. His experience in magic and the multiverse will be invaluable, especially as he navigates the Incursion crisis alongside Charlize Theron's Clea in another universe. Doctor Strange's expertise will be vital in facing formidable foes like Doctor Doom.

Captain America

No Avengers team feels complete without Captain America, and Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson has now stepped into the role previously held by Chris Evans' Steve Rogers. After his journey in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, Sam's evolution continues in Captain America: Brave New World, positioning him as a key figure in rallying the new Avengers.

War Machine

Don Cheadle's War Machine is set to emerge as a prominent hero in the Multiverse Saga. His upcoming film, Armor Wars, will explore his efforts to safeguard Tony Stark's technology. As a seasoned soldier with substantial firepower, War Machine is a natural fit to fill the void left by Iron Man.

Ironheart

Dominique Thorne's Riri Williams, known as Ironheart, is poised to become the MCU's new Iron Man. After her introduction in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, her journey continues in Ironheart, establishing her as a hero ready to contribute her intellect and technology to the Avengers.

Spider-Man

Despite choosing a more low-profile life, Tom Holland's Peter Parker remains a cornerstone of the MCU. The challenge of his forgotten identity may complicate his involvement, but fans speculate that Wong might retain knowledge of Spider-Man's secret, facilitating his return to the Avengers.

She-Hulk

While Mark Ruffalo's Hulk takes a backseat, Tatiana Maslany's She-Hulk emerges as a powerhouse for the new Avengers. Her blend of legal acumen, super strength, and fourth-wall-breaking humor makes her an ideal candidate for the team.

The Marvels

Captain Marvel's team, formed in The Marvels, includes Brie Larson's Carol Danvers, Teyonah Parris' Monica Rambeau, and Iman Vellani's Kamala Khan. Each member is likely to play a significant role in the upcoming Avengers films, with Captain Marvel potentially leading the team alongside Captain America.

How Many Avengers Is Too Many?

With the potential for a significantly expanded roster, the question arises: How large can the Avengers team grow? Inspired by Jonathan Hickman's expansive Avengers runs in the comics, the MCU may follow suit, possibly introducing multiple teams to handle various threats.

Hawkeye & Hawkguy

Despite Jeremy Renner's Hawkeye considering retirement, his return seems likely for Avengers: Doomsday. Hailee Steinfeld's Kate Bishop, the new Hawkeye, is also poised to join the Avengers, adding to the team's diverse skill set.

Thor

As one of the last original Avengers still active, Chris Hemsworth's Thor remains a vital member. His position at the end of Thor: Love and Thunder sets the stage for his continued involvement, potentially alongside his adopted daughter, Love.

The Ant-Man Family

Following the events of Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, the Ant-Man family, including Scott Lang, Hope van Dyne, and Cassie Lang, will likely continue to play a crucial role in the Multiverse Saga, especially with the Quantum Realm's significance.

Star-Lord

Chris Pratt's Star-Lord returns to Earth at the end of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, hinting at his potential involvement with the Avengers as new threats emerge on his home planet.

Black Panther

With Letitia Wright's Shuri now donning the Black Panther suit, Wakanda's resources and technology will be crucial for the Avengers. Winston Duke's M'Baku, as the new monarch, further solidifies Wakanda's importance in the team's strategy.

Who's on your must-have list of Avengers for Phase 6? Who should lead the team?

Note - this article was originally published on July 28, 2022 and updated on February 18, 2025 with the latest MCU developments.