What's next for the Marvel Cinematic Universe after Avengers: Endgame?


Avengers: Endgame may offer an ending for the Marvel Cinematic Universe. But it's certainly not the ending. So what will the franchise's next chapter look like?
Marvel has only officially set a release date for one post-Endgame film: Spider-Man: Far From Home, which hits theaters in July. But a number of other projects are in the works, one being a Black Widow solo movie, in which Scarlett Johansson's co-stars will reportedly include Rachel Weisz and David Harbour. A 2020 release is rumored.
Also in the works is The Eternals, which revolves around a race of super-powered beings and will reportedly star Angelina Jolie and Kumail Nanjiani. It could land in 2020 as well.
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Another new franchise is Shang-Chi, which is based on the Kung Fu master hero and will be Marvel's first film centering around an Asian lead. That might make its way in 2021, a year that could also bring Black Panther 2 and Doctor Strange 2.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is also on the way; it's set to close out the trilogy and be the last film featuring the current version of the Guardians. It was originally expected for 2020 but was delayed after the firing — and re-hiring — of director James Gunn. Now, don't expect it until 2022.
A third Spider-Man is also happening, and a Captain Marvel follow-up is all but confirmed. Plus, a third Ant-Man seems likely, and there have reportedly been discussions of a fourth Thor. And yes, eventually, there will be another Avengers film.
Marvel's future will also rely heavily on Disney+, the streaming service where shows based on Loki, Scarlet Witch and Vision, Falcon and Winter Soldier, and Hawkeye are all on the way, and they'll tie directly into the film universe.
Marvel likely has even more surprises up its sleeve, especially after obtaining Fox's characters like the Fantastic Four. But one thing is certain: beyond Endgame, the Avengers will return — in some form, at least.
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Brendan worked as a culture writer at The Week from 2018 to 2023, covering the entertainment industry, including film reviews, television recaps, awards season, the box office, major movie franchises and Hollywood gossip. He has written about film and television for outlets including Bloody Disgusting, Showbiz Cheat Sheet, Heavy and The Celebrity Cafe.
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