‘Eternals’ Star Lauren Ridloff Hints at Team’s Absence in ‘Avengers: Doomsday’

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In the upcoming movie titled “Avengers: Doomsday”, a variety of characters from different parts of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (and beyond) are expected to join forces. However, based on one of the film’s stars, it seems that the Eternals will not make an appearance. Given that the last installment of Eternals ended with a grand cliffhanger involving a Celestial ready to decide humanity’s destiny, and additional scenes during the credits hinting at Harry Styles as Eros and teasing Blade and Black Knight, it was thought that the Eternals would reappear soon. Interestingly, while “Doomsday” features several notable MCU groups such as Thunderbolts, Fantastic Four, and X-Men in a massive team-up film, there has been no announcement of any Eternals cast members.

Lauren Ridloff, the actress who portrayed Mikkari in Eternals, recently conversed with The Direct during the South by Southwest Film Festival for the documentary Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore. When asked about a potential return of the Eternals, possibly in Avengers: Doomsday, Ridloff expressed skepticism, stating that her crystal ball isn’t indicating an immediate comeback. In her own words, she said, “I don’t know, my crystal ball is telling me ‘Not likely.’

Will the Eternals Ever Return?

The film titled “Eternals” hit theaters on November 5, 2021, marking one of the initial significant productions for Phase 4 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Directed by Academy Award winner Chloé Zhao and adapted from the popular Jack Kirby comic series, it featured an impressive ensemble cast, including stars like Angelina Jolie, Salma Hayek, Barry Keoghan, Kumail Nanjiani, and Brian Tyree Henry, among others. With high expectations as a new foundation for the franchise, “Eternals” was poised to be a key player. However, its $402 million global earnings fell short compared to its $200 million budget, despite doing reasonably well at the box office amidst the pandemic. Additionally, it became the first MCU movie to receive a less-than-favorable rating on Rotten Tomatoes, casting doubts about its success.

It’s a shame that Ridloff’s character Mikarri, or any Eternal, appeared to be left out of Avengers: Doomsday. Mikarri was particularly noteworthy, not just for her thrilling super-speed sequences on screen, but also for the romantic relationship she developed with Keoghan’s Druid. This relationship, which wasn’t initially part of the script, emerged from the actors’ strong on-screen chemistry. The pairing could have added depth and excitement to the story of saving the multiverse from Doctor Doom’s threat.

The future of these Marvel Universe characters remains uncertain, as reports indicate that plans for a sequel have been abandoned. However, there’s always a possibility that Marvel Studios may re-explore these characters and storylines at some point in the future. For instance, Captain America: Brave New World recently incorporated plots from The Incredible Hulk that had been dormant for 17 years, demonstrating Marvel Studios’ willingness to revisit past events. Similarly, it’s possible that the storylines of Eternals could resurface in future narratives, or they might be written off as a consequence of the Multiverse Saga and the MCU’s current state.

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2025-04-13 18:05