Original Avengers Cast Returns for Marvel’s Doomsday Film

As anticipation builds for the release of Avengers: Doomsday, scheduled for December 18, 2026, Marvel fans are eager to learn which original Avengers actors will return. The film marks a pivotal moment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), building on the legacy of characters introduced in the original 2012’s The Avengers. While several familiar faces will reprise their roles, others remain absent from the upcoming installment.

The film is set to act as the beginning of the conclusion for The Multiverse Saga, leading into Avengers: Secret Wars. It will unite the Avengers, the New Avengers, the Fantastic Four, and characters from FOX’s X-Men franchise against the iconic villain, Doctor Doom. Details about the plot are still scarce, but the character dynamics promise to be complex, particularly with several actors confirmed to be returning in different capacities.

Confirmed and Missing Cast Members

Among the confirmed actors, Robert Downey Jr. is set to return, but this time as the notorious Doctor Doom. Downey, who first portrayed Tony Stark/Iron Man in 2008’s Iron Man, has been a cornerstone of the MCU. His return was announced during Marvel’s panel at San Diego Comic-Con 2024, raising questions about his role. Fans are left speculating whether Doctor Doom will be a variant of Stark or a separate character entirely.

In contrast, Scarlett Johansson, who portrayed Black Widow, has not been confirmed for this installment. While her character met her end in Avengers: Endgame, some fans hope to see a surprise appearance.

Another returning fan-favorite is Chris Hemsworth as Thor. Hemsworth’s participation was confirmed in March 2025, with his character last seen in 2022’s Thor: Love and Thunder. Hemsworth’s return is particularly exciting, as fans are curious if the film will explore a more serious portrayal of Thor, similar to his character arc in Avengers: Infinity War.

In terms of uncertainty, Mark Ruffalo‘s return as Bruce Banner/Hulk remains unconfirmed. Ruffalo was last seen as Professor Hulk in the series She-Hulk: Attorney at Law. His role in Spider-Man: Brand New Day, set for release on July 31, 2026, has been confirmed, but Marvel has yet to clarify his involvement in Avengers: Doomsday.

Additionally, Chris Evans will reprise his role as Steve Rogers/Captain America. The first teaser for Avengers: Doomsday features Evans in a domestic setting, sparking theories that he may be the version of Rogers who returned to the past at the end of Endgame. This subplot could become a crucial element of the film’s narrative.

Finally, Jeremy Renner’s return as Hawkeye remains uncertain. Although he has expressed interest in a potential second season of his Disney+ series, no official announcements have been made regarding his role in the upcoming film.

As the release date approaches, fans can expect additional announcements regarding the film’s cast and plot details. The excitement surrounding Avengers: Doomsday reflects the enduring legacy of the original Avengers and their significance in the ever-expanding Marvel universe.