Marvel Studios Announces Return of Iconic Villains in Avengers: Doomsday
Marvel Studios has officially revealed that several legendary villains from its cinematic universe will make their comeback in the forthcoming film, Avengers: Doomsday. This latest addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), directed by the Russo brothers, promises to be one of the most significant movies in nearly two decades of Marvel storytelling. With an expansive cast that rivals the ensembles seen in Infinity War and Endgame, anticipation is building. The studio announced the casting of 27 actors in late March 2025, including eight villains from various phases of Marvel’s cinematic history.
The characters set to return are not just formidable foes; many have evolved into antiheroes or even heroic figures in their respective arcs. Some have joined the Thunderbolts, while others have allied with the X-Men through 20th Century Fox’s adaptations. Remarkably, one villain has ascended to the role of protector of the multiverse, suggesting that their reunion in Doomsday will serve as a prelude to a powerful confrontation with a new adversary: Doctor Doom, portrayed by Robert Downey Jr.
1. Bucky Barnes’ Winter Soldier
Sebastian Stan as Bucky Barnes in Captain America: The First Avenger
Sebastian Stan will further solidify his status as one of the MCU’s longest-serving characters with his appearance as Bucky Barnes, also known as the Winter Soldier and White Wolf, in Avengers: Doomsday. Bucky’s recent endeavors have seen him transition into a key member, and perhaps lead, of the Thunderbolts, culminating a redemption narrative that began upon his liberation from HYDRA’s control—a journey that was prominently featured in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier.
Originally introduced as the childhood friend of Steve Rogers, Bucky’s transformation into the Winter Soldier was marked by tragedy and manipulation. However, the love and support he received from Rogers and the Wakandans allowed him to reclaim his identity and become a revered hero, albeit one under the scrutiny of potentially turbulent consequences. It’s speculated that his prominent role in Doomsday could potentially culminate in a heartfelt reunion with old allies during the Multiverse Saga.
2. Namor
Tenoch Huerta Mejía as Namor in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever
The future of Tenoch Huerta Mejía’s portrayal of Namor was uncertain following his debut in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. As one of Marvel’s original superheroes, Namor’s character deserves further exploration. He served as a complex antagonist, advocating for the conservation of his underwater kingdom while forming a truce with Shuri, the new Black Panther.
Given Namor’s history as an antihero, it’s likely his journey in Avengers: Doomsday will expose vulnerabilities within his kingdom, prompting him to ally with surface-level heroes only under extraordinary circumstances. The narrative could weave together his relationship with Shuri, presenting a compelling plotline while paving the way for future developments.
3. Bob’s Sentry
Lewis Pullman as Sentry in Thunderbolts
As part of the upcoming Thunderbolts film, Lewis Pullman’s “Bob,”a.k.a. Sentry, represents a significant introduction for the MCU. This character, known as Robert Reynolds in the comics, is an extremely powerful super-soldier tethered to the duality of incredible strength and a dark alter ego known as the Void. Thunderbolts showcases the Void as a looming threat, possibly setting the stage for Sentry to emerge as a central figure in Doomsday.
Bob’s powers make him one of the most compelling characters entering the MCU, as he navigates the complexities of his dark side while presumably collaborating with the Thunderbolts to counter greater threats. His dual nature is sure to create intriguing dynamics in the team and enrich the storytelling as the MCU moves forward.
4. John Walker’s U.S. Agent
Wyatt Russell as U.S. Agent in The Falcon & the Winter Soldier
A key figure making his return is Wyatt Russell’s John Walker, initially introduced as a controversial successor to Captain America. Walker’s violent tendencies and moral ambiguity culminated in his transformation into the U.S. Agent, a role crafted under the influence of Valentina Allegra de Fontaine. His character promises to grapple with his past as he joins the Thunderbolts in the upcoming film.
As this dark reflection of Captain America, Walker’s interactions with Sam Wilson’s Captain America and Bucky Barnes are highly anticipated, especially regarding his quest for redemption following a path filled with conflict and ethical dilemmas.
5. Ava Starr’s Ghost
Hannah John-Kamen as Ghost in Ant-Man & The Wasp
Among the Thunderbolts lineup, Ava Starr, known as Ghost, reappears to further explore her character’s depth after originally debuting in Ant-Man and the Wasp. Her struggle with her phasing abilities showcases a unique perspective within the ensemble, enabling a compelling juxtaposition with super-soldiers and classic heroes.
Having retained her abilities while gaining better control, Ghost stands out as a character who can evolve into a more heroic figure. Her potential encounters with Ant-Man could breathe new life into their dynamic, offering playful yet meaningful interactions.
6. Loki
Tom Hiddleston as Loki in Thor
The return of Tom Hiddleston’s Loki presents one of the most transformative arcs in the MCU. Initially depicted as a clever antagonist, Loki has evolved into a heroic figure, particularly after his experiences revolving around redemption in the series Loki. His complex nature hints at an intriguing role in Doomsday, especially with Doctor Doom potentially plotting to harness his powers.
7. Raven Darkhölme’s Mystique
Rebecca Romijn as Mystique in X-Men
Rebecca Romijn returns as Raven Darkhölme, a.k.a. Mystique, marking her first full portrayal of the character in two decades. Mystique’s journey from villain to hero could play a significant role as she aligns with the Avengers against Doctor Doom. Her shape-shifting abilities are an undeniable asset in combat and strategy.
8. Erik Lehnsherr’s Magneto
Ian McKellen as Magneto in X-Men
Joining Mystique is Ian McKellen’s Magneto, another beloved character returning to the MCU from the 20th Century Fox X-Men franchise. Initially established as a principal antagonist, Magneto’s character arc has been marked by complexity, and his appearance in Avengers: Doomsday suggests possible shifts towards a more hero-oriented role aligning with the X-Men to counter Doctor Doom.
The multi-layered narratives of these returning characters in Avengers: Doomsday are sure to enrich the multiverse saga. As Marvel prepares for a climactic confrontation, the dynamics among heroes and former villains promise to captivate audiences, setting the stage for an unforgettable cinematic experience.