Marvel Heroes That Won’t Survive Avengers: Doomsday And Secret Wars

The highly anticipated movies “Avengers: Doomsday” and “Avengers: Secret Wars” are poised to introduce significant turmoil within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Given that both versions of “Secret Wars” in the comics were marked by multiverse chaos that echoed for years, it’s reasonable to expect that these films will collide MCU superheroes dramatically, potentially leading to some characters meeting their end. As Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) wisely said in “Avengers: Endgame,” “part of the journey is the end.

As Doctor Doom (or Downey) plots to unleash chaos across multiple universes, it seems destined that certain seemingly indestructible characters will meet their end in “Doomsday” and “Secret Wars,” much like Stark and Natasha Romanoff (played by Scarlett Johansson) sacrificed themselves in “Endgame.” The question now is which superheroes might fall in these upcoming blockbusters?

It appears that while newer characters like Kamala Khan/Ms. Marvel might be safe in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), many established heroes who have been around for a long time seem vulnerable. Some of these characters may find their stories reaching a natural conclusion with events such as “Doomsday” or “Secret Wars,” while others seem to be overlooked so frequently in recent MCU productions that their potential demise in upcoming “Avengers” movies feels inevitable. In essence, these are the MCU superheroes who seem almost certain to not make it through whatever chaos arises in “Doomsday” or “Secret Wars.

Thor

Back then, it’s tough to believe now, but the initial “Thor” was just the fourth film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Fast forward, Chris Hemsworth has breathed life into this character across four standalone “Thor” films and a set of four “Avengers” chapters, not forgetting his cameo in “Doctor Strange.” Thor has truly become a cornerstone of the MCU, which is quite remarkable for a character that was once deemed too outlandish or fantastical to coexist with the Iron Man crew. Yet, if directors Anthony and Joe Russo are seeking a significant superhero to bid farewell in “Avengers: Doomsday” and “Avengers: Secret Wars” to intensify the drama, Thor could be an ideal candidate, despite his devoted fanbase and extensive role within the series.

One point to consider, two out of the initial six Avengers are no longer alive in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). The longevity of Thor throughout the phases of MCU history is remarkable, yet it can’t go on forever. It seems fitting that Thor should have a grand farewell in one of the upcoming “Avengers” films. Moreover, the title of 2022’s “Thor: Love and Thunder” suggests that Thor, now an elder figure to the newer MCU superheroes, may be running out of fresh paths. If there are no more intriguing directions for the God of Thunder, it might be time to conclude his story. Epic stories like “Doomsday” or “Secret Wars” could provide excellent opportunities to bring Thor’s long-standing journey to an end, as these tales date back almost since the beginning of the MCU.

Wolverine

In “Deadpool and Wolverine,” Ryan Reynolds, portraying the sarcastic character Wade Wilson, jokingly remarks that Disney might make Hugh Jackman, who’s playing Wolverine for the first time since 2017, work until he turns 90. This jest is based on a certain reality, as Disney appears to be holding onto past productions quite tightly these days.

Despite Jackman’s character being seemingly indestructible, it’s clear that he won’t be able to play the role forever. However, with Kevin Feige publicly stating that Marvel Studios is eager to reprise Jackman’s Wolverine in the third “Deadpool” film, there’s a strong possibility that we might see this iconic mutant appearing in “Avengers: Doomsday” and “Avengers: Secret Wars.” This would align well with the comics’ history, where Wolverine played a significant role in the original 1980s “Secret Wars” series.

If Wolverine appears again in future “Avengers” films, it might be fitting to follow the pattern set by “Logan” and conclude this version of the character. This move would serve to emphasize the formidable qualities of villains like Doctor Doom and those from storylines like “Doomsday” and “Secret Wars,” as they would have defeated an apparently indestructible mutant. Additionally, there’s been a lot of speculation that Marvel’s “X-Men” film reboot could be closer than fans imagine. Eliminating Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine in these “Avengers” films could pave the way for a fresh portrayal of mutants on the big screen.

Peter Quill/Star-Lord

In the closing post-credits scene of “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3”, Chris Pratt’s character, Peter Quill/Star-Lord, was definitively back on Earth, enjoying a simple breakfast with his grandfather in a modest kitchen. This is quite a change from where we first encountered him, digging up peculiar relics from alien sanctuaries over a decade ago. With this transition, it’s evident that a fresh chapter has started for Star-Lord, yet it doesn’t imply that he’s hung up his superhero cape forever.

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but feel excited about the prospect of seeing Star-Lord again on the big screen. The intriguing text, “Star-Lord will return,” has piqued my interest, and it seems that ideal opportunities for this reunion could be in movies like “Avengers: Doomsday” or “Secret Wars.” Given Chris Pratt’s recent collaboration with the Russo brothers on “The Electric State,” there’s a strong possibility he might team up with them again.

However, Star-Lord intentionally stepped away from his exhilarating space adventures, so it would take something extraordinary to draw him out of his contented domestic life.

A strong reason should be found to reinstate Star-Lord, considering he has cheated death multiple times. Bringing Star-Lord back to perish or self-sacrifice in the storylines of “Doomsday” and “Secret Wars” could provide a satisfactory conclusion for his character arc. Furthermore, since most of Star-Lord’s emotional arcs have been resolved, it seems unnecessary to keep him beyond the next two “Avengers” appearances. It might be time for Star-Lord to bid farewell with a grand finale.

Bruce Banner/The Hulk

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Bruce Banner/The Hulk (portrayed by Mark Ruffalo) has made numerous appearances. His story began with “The Incredible Hulk” in 2008, featuring both Edward Norton and Mark Ruffalo as the character. Over the years, The Hulk has become a crucial member of The Avengers, delivered standout performances, such as in “Thor: Ragnarok,” and even provided valuable guidance to Jennifer Walters/She-Hulk during her Disney+ series.

The portrayal of the Hulk by Mark Ruffalo has been quite busy, with roles that include a more conversant and intelligent depiction of the green giant. Moreover, notable characters from the comics like Red Hulk (Harrison Ford) and Samuel Sterns/The Leader (Tim Blake Nelson) have appeared in MCU productions such as “Captain America: Brave New World.” Given the extensive use of the Hulk in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, it seems plausible that he might meet his end among the Avengers during “Avengers: Doomsday” and “Secret Wars.

In a similar vein to Thor, it seems fitting and poetic in this sprawling multiverse tale for one of the first Avengers to meet their end. As a new crop of MCU heroes prepare to take center stage, such an event would carry a profound impact. Moreover, with the MCU having mined numerous Hulk comic book storylines, particularly those from “Planet Hulk,” over time, it feels that the well of adaptable material related to the Hulk is running low. Given that the Hulk now has a son within the MCU’s canon, it appears that a significant shift in his status quo might be imminent – perhaps even his demise.

Scott Lang/Ant-Man

2015’s “Ant-Man,” my first solo movie, was appreciated far and wide for serving up a more laid-back vibe compared to the epic Marvel Cinematic Universe spectacle, “Avengers: Age of Ultron.” As Ant-Man (Paul Rudd), I started off with a smaller role in the MCU, but my subsequent escapades have taken me on wild multiversal journeys and even made me a crucial player in “Avengers: Endgame.

Through various adventures across multiple universes, Lang has found himself in a permanent state of being trapped in the Quantum Realm on two occasions, notably in “Ant-Man and the Wasp” and its sequel “Quantumania.” Yet, he has managed to escape both times so far. However, it seems like he can’t keep dodging this fate indefinitely. Given that upcoming films such as “Avengers: Doomsday” and “Avengers: Secret Wars” might involve numerous realms of existence, the possibility of Ant-Man meeting an untimely end could be very real.

It seems only fitting that someone who has survived two brushes with death in the Quantum Realm would be at risk from universal troubles, as hinted by the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) on numerous occasions. It’s high time we see Scott Lang meet his end through the multiverse, as promised. Moreover, fans of the MCU have expressed their disapproval regarding “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania,” citing several creative mistakes. Eliminating Ant-Man in the upcoming “Avengers” movies wouldn’t necessarily halt the ongoing solo series. Therefore, this small-scale hero should be cautious, as a major downfall could be looming for him within the MCU in the near future.

Thena

Instead of only discussing long-standing Marvel Cinatic Universe characters, let’s consider a scenario where a relatively new hero meets their end in “Avengers Doomsday” or “Avengers: Secret Wars”. For instance, one from the Eternals could be the chosen one to perish. It makes perfect sense for Doctor Doom to gain more prestige by defeating a superhero who has been around since the beginning of time.

One potentially fragile character from the group might be Thena (Angelina Jolie), as depicted at the end of “Eternals,” she was shown journeying to the farthest reaches of space alongside Makkari and Druig. It’s conceivable that during their cosmic adventures, they cross paths with Doom and his Battleworld (the setting for the “Secret Wars” comics), leading to Thena meeting an untimely end after countless ages.

Choosing Thena among her three “Eternals” co-stars is mainly due to Angelina Jolie’s significant fame in Hollywood. Given her status as one of the most recognized movie stars from the past three decades, viewers wouldn’t require extensive knowledge about “Eternals” to comprehend the impact of Thena’s demise. Moreover, such a decision would provide these Eternals characters with a strong personal reason to combat Doom, which is crucial as they currently lack connections within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Her sacrifice could mark a memorable end to Thena’s time in the MCU, even though it may be brief.

Rhodey/War Machine

Initially, Don Cheadle had shown enthusiasm about an “Armor Wars” film revealing War Machine’s personal storyline. However, it was revealed that Marvel Studios has put the first standalone movie for Colonel James “Rhodey” Rhodes on hold. This leaves the future of one of the MCU’s early superheroes uncertain as we approach the 20th anniversary of his debut in “Iron Man”.

It appears that Marvel Studios might be setting up War Machine (Rhodey) as a potential superhero who could meet his end in the next two “Avengers” films. Since “Armor Wars” is no longer a key project, eliminating War Machine wouldn’t hinder a promising future MCU production. Moreover, the MCU has faced challenges in defining Rhodey’s role within the franchise now that Tony Stark, his close friend, has passed away. If there isn’t significant content to offer Don Cheadle, why maintain him in the series?

Doomsday,” and “Secret Wars” in the pipeline, it appears these stories will provide an appropriate farewell for his character.

Valkyrie

It appears that “Thor: Love and Thunder” suggests Marvel Studios may not be planning to delve deeper into the character of Valkyrie, as portrayed by Tessa Thompson. After making an impact in “Thor: Ragnarok,” and having some exciting action moments in “Avengers: Endgame,” Valkyrie’s role in “Love and Thunder” diminished significantly during the final act, following an injury to her arm. As a result, any ongoing storylines for Valkyrie came to a standstill.

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Valkyrie has not had a significant role in many media, and the main creatives have not hinted at extensive future plans for her. Since Thor’s story seems to be wrapping up with the next two Avengers movies, it could make sense to also conclude Valkyrie’s character arc by having her courageously sacrifice herself in a battle against villains during “Doomsday” and “Secret Wars.

Currently, Thompson is quite occupied with the play “Hedda” and the upcoming Netflix series “His and Hers,” leaving little room for additional Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) appearances. With her schedule filling up, one might question if she’d be keen to carve out more time for further MCU roles. Additionally, writing off Valkyrie could provide the character with a significant arc after being underutilized and overlooked in “Love and Thunder.” Post-“Ragnarok,” Valkyrie deserved better treatment, but perhaps the next two “Avengers” films can offer her an equally impactful send-off to compensate for her absence in “Love and Thunder.

Doctor Strange

Throughout his Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) journey, Doctor Strange (played by Benedict Cumberbatch) has intentionally and consistently delved into the multiverse. On the other hand, Ant-Man/Scott Lang has stumbled into the multiverse on numerous occasions unintentionally. For instance, the final scene of the original “Doctor Strange” movie involved a trip to the Dark Dimension, while Cumberbatch’s abilities in interacting with the multiverse were crucial for the entire storyline of “Spider-Man: No Way Home.

Thus far, following the occurrences of “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness,” only minor repercussions have manifested, such as Strange acquiring a third eye and gaining a companion reminiscent of Charlize Theron. Nonetheless, as Baron Mordo (Chiwetel Ejiofor) cautioned him repeatedly, “one’s debts must eventually be paid.” It is unlikely that Doctor Strange can continue meddling with the multiverse without experiencing serious repercussions.

In light of Marvel Studios’ “Multiverse Saga” nearing its conclusion with “Doomsday” and “Secret Wars,” it could make perfect sense to wrap up Doctor Strange’s storyline too. It would be quite fitting for his character’s final moments to unfold amidst Doctor Doom’s multiverse-wide chaos. Moreover, the Marvel Cinematic Universe wouldn’t lose its magical elements with the departure of Strange, as characters such as America Chavez (Xochitl Gomez), Wong (Benedict Wong) and even Strange’s cape hinting at latent magical abilities in Spider-Man’s friend Ned (Jacob Batalon). So, it seems possible that Strange might pay the ultimate price during “Doomsday” and “Secret Wars.

Rocket Raccoon

Initially, Rocket (portrayed by Bradley Cooper and Sean Gunn) was an unyielding solitaire, recoiling at the thought of socializing with others, much less collaborating on a shared objective. However, in the heartwarming finale of “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3,” Rocket has evolved to such an extent that he’s capable of embracing numerous companions and assuming the role of leader for the Guardians. The mid-credits scene of “Vol. 3” hinted at this transformation, depicting Rocket orchestrating a battle line with Groot, Adam Warlock, Kraglin, and other cosmic champions, a spectacle that would have seemed inconceivable when the trilogy commenced.

It’s highly likely that the latest version of the Guardians of the Galaxy will feature in both “Avengers: Doomsday” and “Secret Wars,” given their significant role in “Infinity War” and “Endgame.” However, upon their return, there might be a change as their current furry leader could potentially be replaced.

In the movies “Doomsday” or “Secret Wars”, Rocket’s demise would likely cause countless viewers to weep profusely, given his survival after the Thanos snap in “Infinity War”. Yet, a self-sacrificing act from Rocket might underscore his character development. Moreover, it has been proven that the Guardians of the Galaxy can adapt to new team members as shown in “Vol. 3”. Most significantly, “Vol. 3” explored Rocket’s past and allowed him to find peace with his origins, completing his most significant character journey. With no more compelling emotional aspects left unexplored, it might be fitting for him to soar off… into the infinite and breathtaking sky.

Bucky Barnes

Initially in the “Captain America” series, Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan) primarily served as a supporting character, serving as a catalyst for Steve Rogers/Captain America’s (Chris Evans) actions and sparking an abundance of Tumblr fan-fiction based on his relationships with male characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. However, over time, a devoted fanbase emerged for this complex anti-hero with his distinctive shaggy hair. Fast forward to today, and the “Thunderbolts” poster boldly proclaims, “Experience more Bucky!

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), the character has emerged as a crucial element that sets projects apart, particularly beyond the Captain America series. This is quite an achievement considering he was previously seen as a mere imitation of Dick Grayson/Robin in the comics for many years. However, it seems unlikely that Bucky will make it through the turmoil Doctor Doom brings to the Avengers in “Avengers: Doomsday” and “Avengers: Secret Wars.

As a gamer, I’ve got to admit, even with that super-soldier serum pumping through his veins and a mechanical arm, it’s questionable if a normal guy like Bucky could endure Doctor Doom’s mightiest feats. There’s no enchantments, mystical artifacts, or extraordinary powers to shield him. Worse still, Bucky met his demise at the hands of “Avengers” baddies in the finale of “Infinity War”. Who knows if it could happen again, especially with Doctor Doom around? At least, when the time comes for Bucky’s final bow, it’ll ignite a fervor among fans that surpassed anyone’s expectations when the character debuted on the big screen in 2011.

2025-03-25 19:32