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Disney Reportedly Drops Beloved Marvel Actress From ‘Avengers’ Franchise

Marvel has been making some unpredictable moves lately, and fans have not missed a beat. Creative pivots, reshuffled release calendars, and sudden storyline changes have sparked debate across social media. Now, a new development appears to be joining the list, and this one has fans seriously talking.

Reports suggest that Marvel may quietly move forward without a major actress in the next wave of Avengers films, a decision many didn’t see coming. Marvel built its legacy on iconic talent and big, emotional team-ups, so sidelining a fan-favorite name feels like a turning point.

This isn’t just a casting question; it aligns with the studio’s pattern of recalibrating as it enters a defining stretch of storytelling. Marvel’s Multiverse Saga nears its climax, and every decision seems to shape the future of the MCU in real time.

Wanda Maximoff/Scarlet Witch in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness
Credit: Marvel Studios

Phase Six Raises the Stakes

Marvel officially stepped into Phase Six, and expectations are stacked higher than ever. With the Multiverse storyline racing toward a dramatic finish, every character who stays or goes feels like a puzzle piece moving into place.

The energy surrounding Avengers: Doomsday (2026) alone tells you everything. This chapter promises world-collapsing consequences, crowded hero lineups, and a goodbye-and-hello energy that fans can already feel.

Initially, Avengers: The Kang Dynasty was positioned as the next central turning point, but plans shifted. Now, eyes are locked on Secret Wars (2027), a film designed to merge worlds, celebrate legacy, and wrap up one of Marvel’s most ambitious story threads ever.

A person in a green coat with a gold chain stands arms outstretched, surrounded by green-hooded, metallic-masked figures on stage. The Comic-Con banner hints at possible MCU insider secrets revealed during the dramatic scene.
Credit: Marvel Studios Comic Con

Secret Wars Sets the Stage

Marvel built Secret Wars as the ultimate crossover moment. Think legendary characters returning, beloved storylines converging, and the biggest roster of heroes the MCU has ever assembled. Fans expected a “no one gets left out” scenario, but as the cast list grows, it seems that some favorites may not make the cut.

Recent conversation suggests that Disney may be leaving specific recognizable MCU names out of the final Multiverse showdown. One of the most surprising rumored absences involves a Hollywood icon who helped headline one of Marvel’s most ambitious films.

The cast of Thunderbolts*
Credit: Marvel Studios

Fans Haven’t Forgotten

When Eternals (2021) premiered, it delivered a massive cast and bold cosmic storytelling. Despite mixed chatter online, the movie actually outperformed Thunderbolts at the box office, earning roughly $20 million more. That number becomes even more interesting when you factor in the star power behind the film.

The cast included rising stars and celebrated actors alike, but Angelina Jolie stood out as Thena, a fierce warrior with a devoted fanbase. With blockbuster credits like Maleficent (2014) and Mr. and Mrs. Smith (2005), Jolie brought major Hollywood weight into the MCU, signaling Marvel’s confidence in the character and future plans.

So the idea that she may not return for Marvel’s most significant crossover has left fans stunned.

Ten people in detailed, futuristic costumes stand side by side at sunset, the glowing sun creating dramatic silhouettes. Their stance and style hint at MCU insider secrets, adding intrigue to the warm, cinematic scene.
Credit: Marvel Studios

Big Star, No Return?

Speculation grew after online reports hinted that the Eternals might not appear in Secret Wars. Insider chatter noted the surprising possibility of Jolie not returning, with one industry voice pointing out how unusual it would be not to use an actress of her caliber in such a monumental event.

Fans responded loudly. With Secret Wars being marketed as the MCU’s grand finale for the Multiverse era, leaving out characters like Thena — and an actress as accomplished as Jolie — feels like a significant pivot.

Scarlett Johansson as Black Widow, Chris Hemsworth as Thor, Chris Evans as Captain America, Jeremy Renner as Hawkeye, Robert Downey Jr as Iron Man, and Mark Ruffalo as the Incredible Hulk in 'The Avengers'
Credit: Marvel Studios

Who Else Might Miss Out?

The potential absence of Jolie has fueled worry about other newer characters. Fans have questioned the futures of heroes like She-Hulk (Tatiana Maslany), Moon Knight (Oscar Isaac), and Echo (Alaqua Cox), pointing out that each has seen limited development since their introductions.

If the MCU plans a tighter core lineup heading into the saga’s finale, characters still waiting for breakout moments may find themselves set aside as Marvel narrows its focus.

Marvel's Moon Knight
Credit: Marvel Studios

A Reset May Be Coming

Another wrinkle? Secret Wars could set up a soft reboot. Rumors suggest merged timelines, new versions of familiar heroes, and a streamlined universe as Marvel transitions into Phase Seven. That could explain why some stars may quietly exit and others prepare for fresh takes.

The Road Ahead

There is still time for surprises, and nothing is confirmed. But fans are watching closely as Marvel makes decisions that could define the next decade of storytelling. If a star as iconic as Angelina Jolie sits out Marvel’s biggest crossover, it may signal a shift in how Disney builds its universe from now on.

The MCU once promised that every hero mattered. Now, we may be entering a moment where not all legends continue the journey — and that reality is hitting fans hard.

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