Exploring what's in store for 'Avengers: The Kang Dynasty'
What's the story
The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is currently navigating through its fifth phase, with the upcoming pinnacle movie Avengers: The Kang Dynasty, shrouded in mystery.
The film's future hinges on its main antagonist, Kang the Conqueror. However, Jonathan Majors, who previously portrayed Kang in the MCU, has been unexpectedly removed from the franchise without a successor being named.
This suggests that upcoming MCU films may not feature Kang, potentially limiting time to build up the narrative for Avengers 5.
Character uncertainty
Lead characters for 'Avengers: The Kang Dynasty' are undetermined
The lead characters for Avengers: The Kang Dynasty remain undetermined.
With the Avengers disbanded and no specific characters being highlighted, as Iron Man, Captain America, and Thor were in the Infinity Saga, it's unclear who will take center stage.
This ambiguity extends to the implications of the multiverse and Kang's role within it, raising questions about when these narratives will begin to intertwine.
Phase 5 projects
What do the upcoming projects suggest?
Two forthcoming projects in MCU's Phase 5, Captain America: Brave New World and Thunderbolts, do not seem to explore the multiverse implications or Kang's looming threat.
The former appears more grounded in exploring the new Captain, while the latter, with the inclusion of Sentry, suggests a different set of challenges.
However, Deadpool & Wolverine seems firmly rooted in multiverse exploration as indicated by trailer scenes featuring heavy involvement from the TVA and X-Men variants from Fox's X-Men series.
Phase 6 outlook
What could be the future of the MCU?
MCU's Phase 6 provides ample opportunities for films that could directly lead into Avengers: The Kang Dynasty.
Post-Blade, Marvel's release schedule appears sparse but includes several unassigned slots awaiting project announcements.
Among these is the highly anticipated Doctor Strange 3, expected to delve deeper into multiverse intricacies following Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.
Casting speculations
These Avengers might return in 'Avengers 5'
Marvel Studios is reportedly preparing for Avengers 5 with a potential return of fan-favorite actors and characters.
Unconfirmed reports suggest that several actors from Endgame have been asked to keep their schedules open for a January 2025 shoot.
Notably, Benedict Cumberbatch as Doctor Strange, Tom Holland as Spider-Man, Chris Hemsworth as Thor, and Anthony Mackie as Captain America are expected to return.
Villain speculations
What we know about 'Avengers: Secret Wars'
Initially titled The Kang Dynasty, the film is slated for a May 1, 2026 release.
However, with Majors's departure from the project, speculation suggests that the heroes might face off against a new supervillain, Galactus.
Following this film, Avengers: Secret Wars (2027) is rumored to feature an even larger cast of characters.