10 Fallen MCU Villains We’d Love to See Return in Upcoming Avengers Films

The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has seen its fair share of villains meet their demise, many of whom arguably had more potential to contribute to future narratives. As the MCU gears up for the upcoming Avengers installments, namely Avengers: Doomsday (2026) and Avengers: Secret Wars (2027), there’s an exciting opportunity to reintroduce these characters in fresh and compelling ways. One significant concern among fans is the hiatus in Avengers films since the landmark release of Avengers: Endgame in 2019, but that will soon be addressed with these new entries.

Avengers: Doomsday aims to feature a new roster of heroes alongside the reimagined character of Doctor Doom, further entwining the MCU’s narrative threads. Following that, Avengers: Secret Wars will serve as a climactic conclusion to the Multiverse Saga, utilizing themes of time travel and alternate realities to bring back deceased villains as either formidable foes or surprising allies.

1. Thanos

The Mad Titan’s Return May Support Doctor Doom’s Arc

Undoubtedly, Thanos stands out as a quintessential candidate for resurrection. As the primary antagonist of the Infinity Saga, the Mad Titan remains one of the most iconic villains in MCU history. While time travel has been explored in previous films, the multiverse presents intriguing prospects for Thanos’s comeback.

Actor Josh Brolin has hinted at the possibility of Thanos’s return, and the comics illustrate potential scenarios. In the Secret Wars storyline, Doctor Doom defeats Thanos in a fierce confrontation. A variant of Thanos could emerge, particularly the King Thanos incarnation, who might align with Doctor Doom in the upcoming films.

2. Kang the Conqueror

The Future of the Multiverse Saga’s Original Antagonist

Kang the Conqueror was initially set to be the principal villain of the Multiverse Saga. However, with recent changes regarding actor Jonathan Majors, Kang’s narrative path remains uncertain. His original role now appears to be shifted, potentially paving the way for Doctor Doom to claim center stage. Regardless of these developments, Kang’s return should not be ruled out in the upcoming Avengers films.

3. Cassandra Nova

A Potential X-Men Reunion on the Horizon

Cassandra Nova, portrayed by Emma Corrin in Deadpool & Wolverine, is another villain whose untapped potential could lead to greater story arcs. As Charles Xavier’s twin sister, she demonstrated formidable powers yet was defeated by Deadpool and Wolverine. This character merits a more substantial arc, especially with Kevin Feige hinting at possible X-Men involvement in upcoming MCU projects.

We could witness a thrilling dynamic between Xavier and Nova in future installments, especially if Nova is portrayed in a more nuanced way. Her previous experiences and rule over the Void may allow her to play a pivotal role, either as a wild card or a formidable opponent.

4. MODOK

A Chance for Redemption After a Brief Appearance

MODOK’s portrayal in Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania missed the mark for many fans. This character could either come back as a comedic villain or be reinvented as a serious threat to heroes like Doctor Doom. The comics provide numerous avenues to position MODOK as a cunning antagonist, capable of navigating the complexities of superhero warfare.

5. Gorr the God Butcher

A Redemption Arc for Christian Bale’s Gorr

Christian Bale’s portrayal of Gorr in Thor: Love and Thunder left fans wanting more. Having underutilized an actor of Bale’s caliber, the upcoming Avengers films could explore multiverse variants of Gorr, presenting him as either an ally of the Avengers or a formidable adversary. Given the multiverse’s potential, Gorr could navigate his character’s complexity by shifting allegiances.

6. Ultron

A Return for the AI Menace

Ultron’s story, which began in Avengers: Age of Ultron, can easily be resurrected for the upcoming films. With Robert Downey Jr.reprising his role as Doctor Doom, it’s plausible that this version of Ultron could be tied to a new arc involving humanity and technology. The character’s expected return in the Vision series may set the stage for his participation in future Avengers confrontations.

7. Killmonger

Exploring New Paths for a Fan-Favorite Anti-Hero

Michael B. Jordan’s Killmonger is celebrated as one of the MCU’s more complex villains. Though he met his end in Black Panther, the animated series What If…? showcased alternate realities where Killmonger could reshape the multiverse. With T’Challa’s role reportedly evolving, there could be opportunities for Killmonger to return, potentially as an ally or adversary in the upcoming Avengers installments.

8. The Mandarin

The Real Mandarin Deserves a Comeback

Initially misrepresented in Iron Man 3, the character was redeemed in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings with Tony Leung’s complex portrayal. Despite his demise in the film, a multiverse variant could bring him back, possibly aligning with Doctor Doom. Given his martial prowess and control over the Ten Rings, utilizing this character could substantially enrich future narratives.

9. Mysterio

Unlocking Mysterio’s True Potential

Mysterio, played by Jake Gyllenhaal, revealed Spider-Man’s identity to the world and remains a pivotal character whose story wasn’t fully realized. While he was killed off, the multiverse concept provides ample opportunity for him to return, possibly in an antagonistic role that plays to his ability for deception and manipulation.

10. Whole

The Potential for a Thor Family Reunion

Lastly, Hela stands out as another character who could return for a compelling family dynamic among the Asgardians. While she met her apparent end in Thor: Ragnarok, the multiverse opens up possibilities for a more nuanced interpretation of her character, potentially transforming her into a hero alongside Thor and Loki as they address the looming threat of Doctor Doom.

In conclusion, the upcoming Avengers films provide an engaging platform for resurrecting these slain villains, broadening the MCU’s narrative scope. Marvel Studios has a unique chance to explore complex character emotions and motivations, creating a rich tapestry of storytelling that appeals to long-time fans and newcomers alike.

Source & Images