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

Benedict Cumberbatch revealed that Doctor Strange will be absent from Avengers: Doomsday, but will have a pivotal role in its sequel, Avengers: Secret Wars. He let slip this information to Variety, adding a playful "f*** it" after realizing his spoiler. Cumberbatch emphasized Doctor Strange's "central" importance to the overarching narrative. He also hinted at a third standalone Doctor Strange film in development.

Cumberbatch expressed enthusiasm for the future of the character, stating that Marvel is open to exploring various aspects of the comics to further develop Doctor Strange's complex and contradictory nature. He highlighted the character's rich potential, stemming from his extraordinary abilities and troubled humanity.

Regarding Doctor Strange's absence from Avengers: Doomsday, Cumberbatch explained that the character's arc simply doesn't align with that specific story. Avengers: Doomsday will reportedly star Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom and Chris Evans, though plot details remain scarce. The Russo Brothers are directing, continuing the multiverse storyline with Hayley Atwell's Agent Carter also rumored to appear.

Phase 6 of the MCU begins 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.

Marvel Cinematic Universe: Every Upcoming Movie and TV Show

18 Images