In a stunning revelation that will send shockwaves through the Marvel fandom, Mark Ruffalo has pulled back the curtain on what might have been one of the MCU's most ambitious projects - 'Avengers: Doomsday'. The acclaimed actor, who has portrayed Bruce Banner and his emerald alter-ego since 2012, recently shared exclusive details about this abandoned cinematic epic.
The Doom That Almost Came
During an intimate conversation on the SmartLess podcast, Ruffalo disclosed that Marvel Studios had developed concrete plans for an Avengers film centred around one of comics' most iconic villains: Doctor Doom. This wasn't just another superhero showdown - it was envisioned as a universe-altering event that would have fundamentally reshaped the Marvel Cinematic Universe as we know it.
'The Avengers were going to fight Doctor Doom,' Ruffalo revealed, adding the tantalising detail that the project had reached such an advanced stage it even had working titles. The revelation confirms long-standing fan theories about Marvel's potential directions after the monumental 'Avengers: Endgame'.
A Different Path for Phase Four
This disclosure raises fascinating questions about Marvel's strategic planning. Rather than introducing the multiverse concept that would define Phase Four, the studio apparently considered bringing the iconic Latverian dictator to centre stage. Doctor Doom represents one of Marvel's most complex and formidable antagonists, a character who has eluded proper cinematic representation despite multiple attempts.
The cancellation of 'Avengers: Doomsday' suggests Marvel executives ultimately chose the multiverse narrative that would culminate in projects like 'Loki', 'Spider-Man: No Way Home', and 'Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness'.
What Could Have Been
Ruffalo's revelation paints a picture of an alternate MCU timeline where the Fantastic Four's arch-nemesis would have threatened the entire Avengers roster. This direction would have marked a significant departure from the comic-book-inspired Secret Wars narrative that Marvel is currently developing.
The actor's comments come at a pivotal moment for the MCU, as the studio navigates the challenges of following the Infinity Saga while introducing new characters and concepts to maintain audience engagement.
The Future of Hulk in the MCU
While reflecting on this abandoned project, Ruffalo's continued involvement as the Hulk remains one of the MCU's most enduring partnerships. His willingness to discuss such confidential development details suggests both his trusted position within Marvel and the project's definitive cancellation status.
As Marvel Studios continues to expand its cinematic universe with new characters and storylines, revelations like this offer fascinating glimpses into the road not taken - and remind fans that even in the meticulously planned world of the MCU, many potential futures remain confined to the storyboard room.
