The production of Avengers: Doomsday has kept fans guessing, especially because the mysterious codename “Luke Cage” caused much confusion. Contrary to popular belief, Marvel did not use this name for their Power Man. Instead, the filmmakers actively used it as a cover name for Chris Evans during filming. This clever strategy helped keep his involvement a secret and fueled even more speculation among fans.
The Set Mystery and Secret Locations in Avengers: Doomsday
For months, fans and insiders have speculated about a “mysterious house” built for the movie. The production attached codenames like “Luke Cage,” “Iron Fist,” and “Annie Reynolds” to the location, which many thought was in Chicago, Illinois. However, the actual purpose of this house remained unknown for a long time.
Captain America and Peggy Carter Theories
Recent speculation points to the house belonging to Captain America and Peggy Carter. Interestingly, the production team jokingly dubbed Peggy “Iron Fist” in their shorthand. As a result, fans have developed theories that Carol Danvers and other heroes might travel through time to recruit Steve Rogers and Peggy Carter to fight Doctor Doom. These ideas, therefore, add an exciting new layer to the film’s plot.
Chris Evans and Hayley Atwell’s Return: What We Know
Although Chris Evans has publicly denied returning, multiple reliable sources confirm that both Evans and Hayley Atwell are joining the movie. Since Marvel Studios didn’t include either actor in the initial official cast announcement, fans expect the studio to reveal more details later.
“Luke Cage” Codename Confirmed
Insider @MyTimeToShineH now claims:
“‘Luke Cage’ was the codename used for Chris Evans on the set of Avengers: Doomsday.”
This revelation matches earlier rumors from Comic Book Movie (CBM), which suggested the codename was a clever disguise to keep Evans’ return under wraps.
Set Security and Filming Challenges
Given the film’s high-profile status, the Russo brothers have enforced tight security measures to prevent leaks. When asked about the risk of set photos spoiling surprises during The Electric State press tour, Joe Russo responded:
“We’re pretty good about shutting that down.”
Anthony Russo added:
“We’ve sort of strategized to hopefully be effective with that.”
Joe elaborated:
“Quite a bit of Avengers: Doomsday is being shot on soundstages. We don’t want people getting photographs, so we are being pretty stringent.”
Anthony agreed, noting:
“The location work we are doing, we have picked those locations with that in mind, as well.”
This meticulous planning reflects Marvel Studios’ commitment to maintaining surprise and excitement for fans.
The Star-Studded Cast of Avengers: Doomsday
The film features an extensive cast. Returning MCU stars include Chris Hemsworth, Anthony Mackie, Winston Duke, Tom Hiddleston, Sebastian Stan, Letitia Wright, Paul Rudd, and Robert Downey Jr. Newcomers such as Wyatt Russell, Simu Liu, Tenoch Huerta Mejía, Florence Pugh, Danny Ramirez, David Harbour, Hannah John-Kamen, and Lewis Pullman also join the roster.
Additionally, actors from The Fantastic Four: First Steps — Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, and Joseph Quinn — and legends from the X-Men films, including Kelsey Grammer, Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen, Alan Cumming, Rebecca Romijn, and James Marsden, are part of the ensemble. Fans can also expect appearances by Channing Tatum as Deadpool and Wolverine.
Anthony and Joe Russo direct Avengers: Doomsday, with Stephen McFeely writing the screenplay. The film is set to release on December 18, 2026. Furthermore, Avengers: Secret Wars will follow on December 17, 2027, promising to continue the epic saga in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on MCU’s upcoming projects, and subscribe to Marvel Updates’ YouTube channel.
