The much-debated conclusion of Captain America’s journey in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is now the subject of thrilling new speculation. This theory aims to clarify the anticipated returns of Chris Evans as Steve Rogers and Hayley Atwell as Peggy Carter, particularly in the upcoming film Avengers: Doomsday. With both actors confirmed to reprise their roles, fans are excited to see how this iconic love story evolves in Phase 6 of the MCU, debuting in theaters on May 1, 2026.
Having portrayed one of Marvel’s seminal heroes from Captain America: The First Avenger in 2011 to Avengers: Endgame in 2019, Chris Evans’ comeback as Captain America adds a rich layer of anticipation. Recently, Evans also revisited his earlier role as Johnny Storm in the upcoming Deadpool & Wolverine. While the details of his character’s identity in Avengers: Doomsday remain under wraps, there is considerable speculation about potentially portraying a darker version of Captain America. However, many believe he may embody the original Steve Rogers instead.
Chris Evans & Hayley Atwell’s Reunion in Avengers: Doomsday
The Heart of the MCU Love Story
The complex romance between Steve Rogers and Peggy Carter stands as one of the MCU’s most enduring and heartfelt narratives. Following events in Captain America: The First Avenger, where Rogers is frozen in ice, he awakens in a new era, having missed a pivotal moment with Carter in 1945. Tragically, he witnesses her decline and eventual passing in Captain America: Civil War, leading many to believe he would never find closure.
Everything shifted with Avengers: Endgame, where Steve Rogers seized the opportunity to retire as Captain America and embark on a life with Peggy in an alternate timeline. Their enchanting dance together symbolically concluded Rogers’ arc. With their return in Avengers: Doomsday, fans hope to see this relationship continue seamlessly, as both actors reprise their beloved roles.
Multiverse Implications of Steve Rogers’ Decisions
The Twist in the Timeline
Despite the ideal resolution offered in Avengers: Endgame, the implications of Steve Rogers’ choice to remain in the past introduce potential issues within the multiverse. Ongoing revelations in the Multiverse Saga hint at significant consequences stemming from his prolonged presence in the alternate timeline. The longer Rogers coexists in this reality, the more precarious it becomes.
While Rogers returned as an older man in Endgame, which suggested stability in that timeline, the story may take a turn. One theory suggests that his very existence triggers an incursion within the multiverse. This scenario may unfold in The Fantastic Four: First Steps, potentially impacting events in Avengers: Doomsday.
Chris Evans’ Possible Return as Captain America
The Legacy of Captain America
As fans speculate about Chris Evans’ role in Avengers: Doomsday, one prominent theory posits that he may portray a version of Steve Rogers influenced by HYDRA. Although this perspective is captivating, many believe Evans will return as the original iteration of Steve Rogers, which aligns more naturally with the Multiverse Saga’s trajectory.
| Film Title | Year | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Captain America: The First Avenger | 2011 | Steve Rogers’ Captain America |
| The Avengers | 2012 | Steve Rogers’ Captain America |
| Thor: The Dark World | 2013 | Loki |
| Captain America: The Winter Soldier | 2014 | Steve Rogers’ Captain America |
| Avengers: Age of Ultron | 2015 | Steve Rogers’ Captain America |
| Ant-Man | 2015 | Steve Rogers’ Captain America |
| Captain America: Civil War | 2016 | Steve Rogers’ Captain America |
| Spider-Man: Homecoming | 2017 | Steve Rogers’ Captain America |
| Avengers: Infinity War | 2018 | Steve Rogers’ Captain America |
| Captain Marvel | 2019 | Steve Rogers’ Captain America |
| Avengers: Endgame | 2019 | Steve Rogers’ Captain America |
| Deadpool & Wolverine | 2024 | Johnny Storm’s Human Torch |
| Avengers: Doomsday | 2026 | TBD |
While Evans has previously expressed hesitance about reprising his role due to protective feelings regarding Rogers’ arc, the implications of multiversal chaos could lead to his return. The delightful timeline shared with Peggy Carter could be jeopardized, setting the stage for an announcement of his return that shakes up the MCU again.
Hayley Atwell’s Return as Peggy Carter
Possibility of a New Peggy Carter
While Evans may return as the original Steve Rogers, the original Peggy Carter passed away in Captain America: Civil War. The version of Carter seen at the conclusion of Endgame is a variant from an alternate timeline created by Rogers’ decision to remain in the past. This opens the door for Hayley Atwell to explore a fresh portrayal of Peggy Carter in Avengers: Doomsday.
Previously, Atwell brought Captain Carter to life in the animated series What If…? and later in the live-action segment of Earth-838’s Illuminati in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, where her character met a tragic end. In Avengers: Doomsday, the opportunity arises for Atwell to portray a unique iteration of Peggy Carter, possibly tying in her identity as Captain Carter for a thrilling adventure alongside Evans.
As we anticipate Avengers: Doomsday, the re-emergence of Evans and Atwell in new contexts could enrich the MCU’s tapestry of stories and characters, deepening the resonance of their iconic love story.