Photo Credit: Marvel Studios
Chris Evans finally broke his silence on one of the MCU’s worst-kept secrets ahead of Avengers: Doomsday‘s theatrical release. The former Captain America revealed exactly what pulled him out of retirement after years of playing coy about his Marvel future.
Chris Evans on why Steve returns in Avengers: Doomsday
Chris Evans revealed his reasoning for returning as Steve Rogers in Avengers: Doomsday at CinemaCon 2026. Disney’s presentation on Thursday featured Kevin Feige, Anthony and Joe Russo, Robert Downey Jr., and Evans. The actor addressed his comeback after months of denying any involvement with the Marvel ensemble film.
Evans stated at the Las Vegas event, “I said I would only come back if there was a real reason, and in Doomsday, there’s a very real reason why these heroes need Steve Rogers” (via ScreenRant). He also offered a quippy take on Downey Jr.’s Doctor Doom, saying, “I don’t like him.” The Avengers: Doomsday trailer shown at CinemaCon featured Steve reuniting with Thor on screen.
Evans’ return reports first surfaced in December 2024, before principal photography had begun on the Phase 6 film. The actor repeatedly denied his involvement in subsequent interviews throughout early 2025. He told Esquire in January 2025, “That’s not true, though. This always happens. I mean, it happens every couple years, ever since Endgame. I’ve just stopped responding to it… Yeah, no, happily retired!”
Evans also told ScreenRant, “I mean, it’s sad to be away. It’s sad to not be back with the band, but I’m sure they’re doing something incredible.” MCU actors frequently deny involvement with Marvel Studios projects before official announcements from the studio.
The December 2025 teaser confirmed that Steve Rogers and Peggy Carter had a son in the MCU timeline. Hayley Atwell reportedly returns in the film as well, as reported earlier in 2024. Avengers: Doomsday features crossovers between the original Avengers, The Fantastic Four, and Fox’s X-Men.
Evans’ involvement with Avengers: Secret Wars remains unclear at this stage. Production on that final Multiverse Saga film begins this summer. Marvel Studios’ Avengers: Doomsday opens on December 18.
