Shang-Chi’s return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe is now official. During the recent Avengers: Doomsday livestream, it was confirmed that Simu Liu will reprise his role in the upcoming blockbuster. While the reveal thrilled fans, Liu himself remained tight-lipped about his involvement — a necessity given how closely Marvel Studios guards plot details these days.
The film’s cast announcement last month brought back several familiar faces from the X-Men universe. Kelsey Grammer, Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen, Alan Cumming, Rebecca Romijn, and James Marsden are all set to appear, signaling a major X-Men presence in Avengers: Doomsday. Grammer previously portrayed Beast in the Fox X-Men films and made his MCU debut via a post-credits scene in The Marvels. Stewart, known for playing Professor X, appeared briefly in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness as part of the Illuminati. Meanwhile, McKellen (Magneto), Cumming (Nightcrawler), Romijn (Mystique), and Marsden (Cyclops) have yet to make their official MCU debuts, fueling speculation that this film may serve as their grand introduction — or even hint at an Avengers vs. X-Men storyline.
During a recent appearance on The Jennifer Hudson Show, Liu shared his thoughts on being part of the ensemble. “I knew I was going to be involved in some capacity,” he said, “but I didn’t know who else they were announcing. They don't tell us anything.” He joked about how Tom Holland and Mark Ruffalo had spoiled too many MCU secrets in the past, leading Marvel to lock down information tighter than ever before.
Liu also expressed surprise at seeing legendary actors like Sir Ian McKellen and Sir Patrick Stewart join the MCU lineup. “These are two of the greatest actors to have ever walked the face of the Earth,” he remarked. “That blew my mind a little bit.”
With his debut in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings back in 2021, Liu became a fan-favorite in the MCU. However, aside from this latest confirmation, details about his character’s arc remain under wraps. Likewise, much about Avengers: Doomsday remains unknown beyond its May 1, 2026 release date and the star-studded cast list. But rest assured, more revelations are sure to come.
In other MCU news, fans have also been closely watching Robert Downey Jr.’s recent activities after he shared a Doctor Doom-themed invitation for his 60th birthday celebration — sparking fresh rumors about his potential return as the villainous Master Mold or another mysterious role.
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