Marvel emphasizes Steve Rogers over Thor in upcoming Avengers: Doomsday

Reports from CinemaCon 2026 revealed the cast billing order for the upcoming film Avengers: Doomsday. Robert Downey Jr. is listed first as Doctor Doom, followed by Chris Evans as Steve Rogers, with Chris Hemsworth’s Thor in third place. Industry observers say billing placement often signals narrative focus, indicating Marvel is positioning Steve Rogers as the primary emotional centerpiece rather than Thor, who had been expected to lead the film.

The shift suggests the studio is leaning heavily on nostalgia, pairing Evans with Downey Jr. to attract longtime fans. Thor remains a major hero in the movie and appears in key emotional scenes, such as a reported moment where Steve Rogers reappears holding Mjolnir, shocking Thor. Analysts note the change may also set the stage for Thor’s eventual conclusion in a later crossover film.