With the Marvel Cinematic Universe continuously expanding and introducing new characters, it`s only natural for fans to wonder which actors` contracts are up. As with any major franchise, contracts are a significant factor in determining the future of beloved characters and the films they appear in. So, let`s take a look at which Marvel actors` contracts are up and what it could mean for the MCU.
1. Chris Evans (Captain America)
Chris Evans has become synonymous with the role of Captain America, and it`s no surprise that fans were saddened by his last appearance in « Avengers: Endgame. » In 2019, Chris Evans confirmed that his contract with the MCU was indeed up, indicating that he would no longer be portraying Steve Rogers. However, there have been rumors that Evans may be reprising his role in some capacity, so fans may still have a chance to see their beloved Captain America on-screen once again.
2. Robert Downey Jr. (Iron Man)
Robert Downey Jr. is another beloved actor whose contract with the MCU has already expired. His last appearance was in « Avengers: Endgame, » where he sacrificed his life to save the universe. While some fans hoped that he would return, it seems unlikely given the finality of his character`s storyline.
3. Scarlett Johansson (Black Widow)
Scarlett Johansson has been a significant player in the MCU since her first appearance as Black Widow in « Iron Man 2. » She has appeared in multiple films and was set to finally receive her own standalone film, « Black Widow, » which was released in July 2021. As her existing contract ends with that film, whether or not Johansson will continue to portray Black Widow in the future is currently unknown.
4. Chris Hemsworth (Thor)
Chris Hemsworth`s future with the MCU was uncertain until the announcement of « Thor: Love and Thunder. » Hemsworth`s contract was set to expire after « Avengers: Endgame, » but he publicly stated that he wanted to continue playing Thor. Marvel agreed and recently announced that Hemsworth will reprise his role in the fourth Thor film, which is set to release in 2022.
5. Mark Ruffalo (The Hulk)
Mark Ruffalo`s contract is set to expire after the upcoming Disney+ series « She-Hulk. » While Ruffalo has been a fan-favorite as Bruce Banner/The Hulk, there has been no confirmation regarding his role after the series.
6. Tom Holland (Spider-Man)
Tom Holland`s contract is the most complicated of the bunch, as Sony owns the rights to Spider-Man, and his future with the MCU is not entirely clear. However, Holland recently signed a new contract for three more films that would see him continue portraying the web-slinger in the MCU, including a third solo film and a potential appearance in another Marvel Studios film.
In conclusion, the MCU is constantly evolving, and with it, so are the contracts of the actors who bring these beloved characters to life. Fans will have to wait and see what the future holds for their favorite superheroes and which actors will continue to portray them on the big screen. Nevertheless, one thing is for sure; the MCU is far from over, and we can expect many more exciting adventures to come.