The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is gearing up for its next major milestone with the upcoming release of Avengers: Doomsday in May 2026. However, the landscape has significantly changed since the conclusion of the Infinity Saga. The departure of key cast members following Endgame raises questions about how the new films will resonate with audiences. A comparison of character appearances before and after Endgame highlights the challenge of maintaining audience investment in a new roster of heroes.

Evolving Character Lineup: From Endgame to Doomsday

The MCU's transition from its earlier phases to the upcoming era marks a notable shift in character prominence. Before Endgame, many iconic figures had established deep connections with viewers through multiple films. Now, as we move toward Doomsday, only a handful of characters are bridging this gap, notably Yelena Belova, who appears in Black Widow, Thunderbolts, and Hawkeye. This limited continuity may affect how deeply audiences connect with the new ensemble.

However, it's essential to consider the broader context. Characters like Sam Wilson, Thor, Hulk, Bucky Barnes, and Spider-Man have continued their journeys post-Endgame, appearing in both films and Disney Plus series. These ongoing narratives ensure that some familiar faces remain central to the story. Moreover, the potential introduction of new fan-favorite characters such as Deadpool and Wolverine could add fresh excitement. Daredevil, with its dedicated fan base, also adds depth to the MCU’s expanding universe. Despite these additions, the challenge remains in integrating these elements seamlessly into the overarching narrative.

Audience Engagement: Building New Connections

The success of any superhero film heavily relies on audience engagement. While the original cast built strong bonds over numerous films, the new era faces the task of creating similar connections. Many of the newer characters primarily appear in Disney Plus shows, which might not reach as wide an audience as theatrical releases. Heroes like She-Hulk, Moon Knight, and Echo, while popular in their respective series, may not feature prominently in Avengers: Doomsday. This selective inclusion could impact the overall appeal of the film.

To mitigate this, the MCU must focus on developing compelling storylines that bridge the gap between the small screen and the big screen. For instance, Kamala Khan, with her growing popularity, deserves a significant role. Additionally, the rumored casting of Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom has sparked more confusion than enthusiasm, indicating that strategic casting decisions are crucial. Ultimately, while achieving the same level of audience investment may be challenging, the MCU’s ability to innovate and adapt suggests that Doomsday will still draw substantial attention and likely achieve commercial success.