Marvel Star Drops Major Hint: Doctor Strange's Triumphant Return Set in Avengers 5 Timeline

Benedict Cumberbatch has confirmed that he will be reprising his role as Doctor Strange in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Doctor Strange, one of the most beloved characters in the MCU, last appeared in his second solo film, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, released in 2022. In the film, Strange embarked on a multiverse adventure to protect America Chavez from Scarlet Witch. The post-credits scene hinted at his next appearance, as Strange and Clea, played by Charlize Theron, prepared to face an imminent threat. During the Alan Howard / JW3 Speaker Series, Cumberbatch disclosed the upcoming date of his return as Doctor Strange.

What Could Be Benedict Cumberbatch’s Next Doctor Strange Appearance?

When discussing his upcoming projects, Cumberbatch revealed that there are exciting Marvel adventures in store for next year. As he prepares to reprise his role as Doctor Strange in 2024, several potential films could serve as the character's next journey.

The conclusion of 'Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness' sets up an opportunity for Strange and Clea to make a comeback in the next Avengers movie. This will pave the way for the sequel, 'Avengers: Secret Wars,' where the MCU's heroes will be focused on preventing incursions similar to the one Strange and Clea embarked on. However, due to Marvel's recent decision to postpone several films, including 'Avengers: The Kang Dynasty,' which is now scheduled for release in 2026, it may not be necessary for the movie to be filmed in 2024.

Reed Richards has a significant role in the upcoming Secret Wars comic book event that Marvel Studios is adapting. As Marvel's Fantastic Four is scheduled to begin filming in 2024 for a May 2, 2025 release, there is a possibility that Cumberbatch may appear briefly as Doctor Strange in the film. Including Doctor Strange in the team's debut in the MCU would help link the Fantastic Four to Avengers: Secret Wars, especially considering the sorcerer's association with incursions.

Although less expected, there are other potential options. Cumberbatch may return next year to film scenes for Tom Holland's Spider-Man 4, which is projected to start production around mid-2024. Additionally, there are rumors that Marvel is expediting the release of Doctor Strange 3 before Avengers: The Kang Dynasty, which has been delayed by a year. This raises the possibility that Cumberbatch will return as Doctor Strange once again to conclude his character's trilogy.

Source: Alan Howard / JW3 Speaker Series