Marvel Studios has shifted a lot of things in recent years after some of its films in the Multiverse Saga went through the ringer. There are a few characters in the franchise that have been left hanging and some fans have been left wondering about the future holds for some of these characters.
Now, we’ve got some updates to share with you on some of them thanks to insider Daniel Richtman. He is saying that Doctor Strange 3 and Shang-Chi 2 are not slated to start filming until 2026.
Director Destin Daniel Cretton, who helmed Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, is reportedly still tied to the sequel. However, his busy schedule may delay things further, as he’s set to direct Spider-Man 4 next.
Meanwhile, the Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness follow-up is expected to bring back Sam Raimi as director, though details remain under wraps.
Both of these projects were initially going to be pivotal to the Multiverse Saga, with Shang-Chi’s Ten Rings even tied to Kang the Conqueror. That was teased by ring-like visuals in Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania?
Those connections will now be sshifting, as these films could now, instead, serve as bridges into the next major arc, which is speculated to be the Mutant Saga.
Marvel Studios is also reportedly moving forward with the long-discussed Strange Academy series. The show is said to feature Benedict Wong reprising his role as Sorcerer Supreme Wong, mentoring a new generation of sorcerers.
This seems like a natural progression after the events of Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, where Kamar-Taj took a heavy hit from the Scarlet Witch.
While there’s no official word on Benedict Cumberbatch’s involvement in the series, fans won’t have to wait long to see him back in action. In a recent interview, the actor confirmed he’ll be filming Avengers: Doomsday this year.
Cumberbatch said: “This is Doctor Strange. He’s a Marvel character and, well, I’ll be really honest about it, the joy of playing him is immense.
“But also the joy of playing him means I can help create and platform stories and writing and less commercial fare into being. He’s a gift in many, many ways in my life as a producer, as an actor.”
“I love playing him. He’s great fun. I’m very much looking forward to Avengers next year which is cooking up a storm,”
Simu Liu also offered reassurance about the future of Shang-Chi. While the sequel, once rumored to be titled Shang-Chi and the Wreckage of Time, has faced delays, Liu remains optimistic, saying:
“I will say this: It’s definitely happening. I think I speak for myself and Destin [Daniel Cretton], our returning director, when I say that we’re so beyond excited to jump back in.”
As Marvel comtinues to recalibrate things it’s good to know that Doctor Strange 3 and Shang-Chi 2 re still in the plan. I’m also curious about Strange Academy and it will be interesting to see how that turns out.
