Marvel Star Benedict Cumberbatch Says Doctor Strange Is Skipping Avengers Doomsday But Is a 'Central' Part of Secret Wars

Benedict Cumberbatch reveals Doctor Strange's pivotal role in the MCU's future, while confirming his absence from Avengers: Doomsday. In a recent interview with Variety, Cumberbatch playfully admitted to spoiling some details, stating that Doctor Strange will be "quite central" to the events of Avengers: Secret Wars. He also hinted at plans for a third standalone Doctor Strange film.

Cumberbatch elaborated on the character's arc, emphasizing the ongoing exploration of Strange's complex personality and the vast potential within the comic lore. He highlighted Strange's multifaceted nature – a troubled individual with extraordinary powers – as a compelling source of narrative possibilities. "They are very open to discussing where we go next," he stated, indicating collaborative discussions about the direction of future projects.

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Regarding Doctor Strange's omission from Avengers: Doomsday, Cumberbatch explained that the character's storyline simply doesn't align with that particular film's narrative. Avengers: Doomsday, slated for release on May 1, 2026, will feature Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom and reportedly Chris Evans, among others. The Russo Brothers are directing, and the film is expected to continue the multiverse storyline, potentially including Hayley Atwell's Agent Carter.

Phase 6 of the MCU begins this July with The Fantastic Four: First Steps, followed by Avengers: Doomsday (May 1, 2026) and Avengers: Secret Wars (May 7, 2027).