Marvel Studios is set to release the highly anticipated film, Avengers: Doomsday, on December 18, 2026. Recent reports suggest that two prominent characters, Hawkeye and War Machine, will not be part of the ensemble cast, raising questions about their future in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
The absence of Brie Larson, Mark Ruffalo, Benedict Cumberbatch, and Tom Holland from the call sheet has already generated significant discussion among fans. While these characters could still appear due to Marvel’s penchant for surprise cameos, the focus now shifts to Hawkeye and War Machine, who appear to be sidelined for this installment.
According to Alex Perez from Cosmic Circus, Hawkeye, portrayed by Jeremy Renner, is reportedly retired for good. After passing the mantle to Kate Bishop in the Disney+ series, the character will not return for this film. The original Avenger’s retirement appears to align with the storyline of the Young Avengers, where Bishop is expected to take the lead.
In the case of War Machine, played by Don Cheadle, complications arising from the Secret Invasion storyline are affecting his return. The revelation that a Skrull had replaced him has left the door open for future exploration of his character, but Marvel has decided to hold off on reintroducing him until there is a clear path for his development.
The potential for a standalone project titled Armor Wars, which was intended to delve into War Machine‘s struggles, has been put on the back burner. This decision reflects Marvel’s broader strategy to streamline its storytelling, particularly as it introduces new characters and narratives.
As the MCU continues to evolve, the decision to omit these characters raises important discussions about the future of the franchise. The growing roster of heroes, including the Fantastic Four and the new Avengers team led by Sam Wilson, means that existing characters must share the spotlight.
While some fans may lament the absence of Hawkeye and War Machine, it is seen by others as a necessary step in allowing the new generation of heroes to emerge. The MCU has a history of allowing characters to step back after significant arcs, and this could be a strategic move to prevent overcrowding in a film already filled with established heroes.
The anticipation surrounding Avengers: Doomsday continues to build, with fans eagerly awaiting further details. While the decision to exclude Hawkeye and War Machine may be disappointing for some, it underscores Marvel’s commitment to evolving its narrative while paving the way for fresh faces in the franchise.
As the release date approaches, discussions on platforms like the ComicBook Forum will likely intensify. Fans are encouraged to share their thoughts and engage with the ongoing conversation about the MCU’s direction and character development.
With a release date set for December 18, 2026, Avengers: Doomsday is shaping up to be a pivotal moment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, one that will redefine heroism and storytelling for years to come.
