Overview
- Joe and Anthony Russo have rejoined the Marvel Cinematic Universe to direct Avengers: Doomsday after being persuaded by a creative story idea from writer Steve McFeely.
- Robert Downey Jr. is cast as Doctor Doom, though the filmmakers say they will substantially reinterpret the character rather than reproduce the comic-book version.
- The Russos describe Doomsday and the following Secret Wars as a 'phase zero' that starts the MCU over and positions the films to change its tone and continuity.
- AGBO, the Russos’ production company, will unusually co-produce the next Avengers films with Marvel, a move that surprised some because the brothers had said they would focus on AGBO projects instead of returning to Marvel.
- Avengers: Doomsday is scheduled for release on December 18, 2026, and Marvel has begun limited industry screenings while managing circulation of unverified leaks as promotional work continues.