Concerns Grow Over Marvel’s Quiet Shift Away From Guardians Of The Galaxy

The future of the Guardians of the Galaxy within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) remains uncertain, which raises concerns regarding Marvel Studios’ potential shift away from this beloved cosmic superhero ensemble. Since their captivating introduction in the 2014 film, the Guardians have established themselves as one of the standout properties in the MCU. Their evolution over the course of James Gunn’s trilogy, including the recent Holiday Special, has been a journey I deeply admired. However, the lingering doubt about their return leaves me apprehensive.

At the conclusion of 2023’s Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, fans witnessed the original team disband, albeit with Rocket and Groot remaining in a newly formed lineup, where Rocket ascended to the role of team captain. While this emotional journey suggests the groundwork is being laid for fresh adventures, I find myself disheartened at the lack of news regarding the Guardians’ future, especially in light of recent developments surrounding MCU casting decisions.

No Guardians Confirmed for Avengers: Doomsday

Avengers: Doomsday Set to Premiere in May 2026

New Guardians team in battle in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3

Excitement surged when the Russo brothers were announced as directors for the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday and Secret Wars in Phase 6 of the MCU. This exciting revelation hinted at significant casting updates, including the noteworthy return of Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom and other familiar faces such as Chris Evans and Hayley Atwell. However, despite several prominent characters being confirmed for involvement, the absence of the Guardians of the Galaxy from these discussions has me concerned.

While I eagerly anticipate seeing the likes of the Fantastic Four, the Thunderbolts, Sam Wilson’s Captain America, Doctor Strange, and Spider-Man in Avengers: Doomsday, the lack of information regarding the Guardians’ participation is worrisome. Their narratives have uniquely unfolded apart from the primary MCU timeline, although they played pivotal roles in both Avengers: Infinity War and Endgame. My expectation was for a similar integration in both Doomsday and Secret Wars, but the continued silence about the Guardians’ future leaves much to be desired.

Why Ignoring the Guardians Would Be a Mistake for Marvel

The Guardians of the Galaxy: Essential Components of the MCU

Excluding the Guardians from the MCU landscape, particularly in Avengers: Doomsday, would be a significant oversight by Marvel Studios. The Guardians have transformed from lesser-known characters to stars of one of the most triumphant franchises within Marvel, collectively amassing over $2.4 billion at the box office. Such immense popularity and financial success underscore the folly of letting this cherished saga slip away.

Guardians of the Galaxy MCU Project	Release Date	Box Office
Guardians of the Galaxy	August 1, 2014	$773.4 million
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2	May 5, 2017	$869 million
The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special	November 25, 2022	N/A
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3	May 5, 2023	$845.6 million

While Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 provided a fitting send-off for the original team, it also hinted at exciting new journeys for the individual characters. With potential stories awaiting Star-Lord, Mantis, Nebula, Drax, and Gamora’s variant, I’m eager for these arcs to intersect once again, ideally within the framework of Avengers: Doomsday. So far, only a glimmer of their return has been hinted.

Current Status of the Guardians in the MCU

Star-Lord’s Return as the Legendary Hero

Peter Quill battling on the High Evolutionary's ship in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3

Recently, it has been revealed that Peter Quill, once again embodying the role of the Legendary Star-Lord, will make a return to the MCU, thanks to a tantalizing post-credits scene from Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. Chris Pratt appears set to reprise his iconic role, and whispers indicate that he may already be in talks with Marvel Studios, sparking hope for his involvement in Avengers: Doomsday. It would be compelling to see Star-Lord as a grounded hero in this upcoming film, navigating challenges on Earth while deepening his character in ways not explored during his time with the Guardians.