"Benedict Cumberbatch: Doctor Strange Absent from Avengers Doomsday, Central to Secret Wars"

Benedict Cumberbatch, renowned for his portrayal of Doctor Strange in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), has confirmed that his character will not be featured in the upcoming blockbuster Avengers: Doomsday. However, fans of the mystic hero can look forward to seeing him play a "central role" in the sequel, Avengers: Secret Wars. In a candid interview with Variety, Cumberbatch inadvertently let slip this major spoiler, exclaiming "f**k it" before delving further into his character's future within the MCU.

Cumberbatch revealed that discussions about Doctor Strange's trajectory are ongoing, with a focus on selecting the right writer and director to helm the next standalone film. He expressed excitement about exploring deeper aspects of the comic lore to continue evolving the character. "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," Cumberbatch remarked, highlighting the depth and potential of Doctor Strange.

Marvel Cinematic Universe: Every Upcoming Movie and TV Show

18 Images

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 is set to feature Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom and reportedly Chris Evans as well, although details remain scarce. The film is being directed by the former Avengers directors, the Russo Brothers, and will continue to explore multiverse themes, with Hayley Atwell's Agent Carter also slated to appear.

In the near future, Phase 6 of the MCU will kick off with The Fantastic Four: First Steps this July. Avengers: Doomsday is scheduled for release on May 1, 2026, followed by Avengers: Secret Wars on May 7, 2027. Fans can anticipate an exciting journey ahead in the MCU, with Doctor Strange poised to be a key player in the unfolding saga.