Cumberbatch: Doctor Strange Key to Avengers Secret Wars

Benedict Cumberbatch has confirmed his Marvel Cinematic Universe character, Doctor Strange, will not appear in the upcoming ensemble film "Avengers: Doomsday," but is set to play a pivotal role in its sequel, "Avengers: Secret Wars."

In an interview with Variety, Cumberbatch exclaimed, "f**k it," after realizing he had accidentally shared a spoiler, then elaborated on his character's involvement in future projects. "He’s quite central to where things might go," the actor revealed, adding that a third standalone Doctor Strange film is also in development.

"They are very open to discussing where we go next," Cumberbatch explained. "Who would you like to write and direct the next installment? Which aspects of the comic lore should we explore so that Strange can continue to evolve? He’s a deeply compelling character—complex, contradictory, and troubled, yet armed with incredible abilities. There's so much rich material to explore."

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Discussing Doctor Strange’s absence from "Avengers: Doomsday," Cumberbatch noted it was due to "the character not aligning with this part of the narrative." The upcoming Avengers film will feature Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom and reportedly Chris Evans, though few additional details are currently available.

The Russo Brothers, who previously directed several Avengers films, are helming the project, which is expected to delve further into multiverse adventures. Hayley Atwell is also rumored to reprise her role as Agent Carter.

Looking ahead, Phase 6 of the MCU will launch with July’s "The Fantastic Four: First Steps." "Avengers: Doomsday" is scheduled for release on May 1, 2026, followed by "Avengers: Secret Wars" on May 7, 2027.