Chris Evans has once again dismissed speculation about reprising his role as Captain America in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. In a recent Esquire interview, Evans, 43, made it clear that he has no plans to return as Steve Rogers in Avengers: Doomsday, scheduled for 2026.
Chris Evans Shuts Down Captain America Rumors — Again
When asked about reports from December 2024 suggesting his potential comeback, Evans was quick to shut them down: "That’s not true," he said, explaining that similar rumors have surfaced every few years since his last full appearance in Avengers: Endgame (2019).
"I’ve just stopped responding to it," he added before joking, "Yeah, no — happily retired!"
Though Evans has ruled out a return as Captain America, he did make a surprise cameo in Deadpool & Wolverine (2024), reprising his pre-MCU role as Johnny Storm/Human Torch from Fantastic Four.
Anthony Mackie Steps Into the Captain America Spotlight
Anthony Mackie, who officially took up the Captain America mantle in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, also addressed the speculation. In his Esquire profile, Mackie, 46, laughed when asked about Evans potentially returning.
"I talked to Chris a few weeks ago, and it wasn’t on the table then," Mackie revealed. "At least, he didn’t tell me it was on the table, because I asked him. I was like, ‘You know, they said they’re bringing everyone back for [Doomsday]. Are you coming back?’"
Robert Downey Jr. Returns — But Not as Iron Man
While Evans seems firm about his retirement, Avengers: Doomsday will mark the return of Robert Downey Jr. to the MCU. However, he won’t be reprising his role as Tony Stark/Iron Man, who met his fate in Endgame. Instead, Downey will take on the role of the villainous Doctor Doom in both Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars (2027).
As for the future of Captain America, Mackie will lead the franchise in Captain America: Brave New World, set to hit theaters on February 14, 2025.
