This Phase 4 Avenger Was Set to Play a Major Role in ‘Avengers: Kang Dynasty’

One of Marvel’s most eagerly awaited projects, originally titled ‘Kang Dynasty’ and now known as ‘Doomsday’, almost took a very different shape. Recent details from Inverse reveal that Shang-Chi, played by Simu Liu, was slated to have a significant role in ‘Kang Dynasty’. However, it’s unclear if the Master of the Ten Rings will retain a similar prominence in the revamped ‘Doomsday’. 

This potential shift aligns with the departure of Destin Daniel Cretton, who directed ‘Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings’ and was initially set to direct ‘Kang Dynasty’. Cretton left the project in November 2023 to focus on other Marvel commitments.

Image Courtesy: IMDb

The directorial team for ‘Avengers 5’ remained uncertain until recently. While ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ director Shawn Levy was rumoured to be taking on the role, he stepped back to work on his ‘Star Wars’ project. At San Diego Comic-Con, Marvel made a major announcement: the Russo Brothers, known for directing ‘Captain America: The Winter Soldier’, ‘Civil War’, and ‘Avengers: Infinity War’ and ‘Endgame’, would be returning to direct both ‘Avengers 5’ and ‘6’. 

In another major revelation, Kevin Feige announced that Doctor Doom would be the central villain in Phases 5 and 6 and that Robert Downey Jr. would reprise his role in a new capacity. This news has generated a spectrum of reactions, from excitement to scepticism about the future of the franchise. 

Image Courtesy: IMDb

Even though Shang-Chi might not be involved with Kang through the Ten Rings, there’s hope Marvel will find a role for him in the evolving saga, as he has been a standout character in the post-Endgame era.

‘Avengers: Doomsday’ is set to hit theatres on 1st May, 2026. 

–Farheen Ali