Marvel Studios is charting a course for the Marvel Cinematic Universe well beyond the anticipated "Avengers: Secret Wars," currently slated for December 2027. The studio has begun to reveal its plans for 2028 and beyond, with new installments in established franchises and the introduction of long-awaited characters.
The Next Era Post-Secret Wars
Following the events of "Avengers: Secret Wars," which is expected to serve as a significant reset point for the MCU, Marvel has dated "X-Men" for May 5, 2028. This film is positioned to be the first major release of Phase 7, building on the groundwork laid by "Ms. Marvel" and the upcoming "Deadpool & Wolverine" in introducing mutants to the cinematic universe. Directed by Jake Schreier, the movie is expected to feature a new team led by Sadie Sink as Jean Grey, Kit Connor as Cyclops, and Christopher Abbott as Professor X, with Adam Driver portraying Mister Sinister. The prominent May release date suggests "X-Men" could become a central franchise for the MCU's future.
The supernatural corner of the MCU is set to expand with "Ghost Rider," starring Ryan Gosling as Johnny Blaze, scheduled for release on July 28, 2028. Directed by Shawn Levy, the film continues Marvel's exploration of darker characters and themes, following projects like "Moon Knight" and "Werewolf by Night." Gosling's personal interest in the role could shape his portrayal.
"Black Panther 3" will continue the Wakandan saga on December 15, 2028, with Ryan Coogler returning to direct. This installment will focus on an older Prince T'Challa II, played by David Jonsson, in a coming-of-age story. Denzel Washington is also slated to join the cast in a role yet to be revealed.
Speculative Releases and Future Possibilities
Looking ahead to 2029, Marvel has two untitled theatrical slots: May 4 and July 13. The strongest contender for the May 2029 date is "Shang-Chi 2." Nearly eight years will have passed since the first film, making a sequel overdue. Simu Liu and director Destin Daniel Cretton have indicated the sequel is in development, and Shang-Chi's involvement in "Avengers: Doomsday" could set the stage for his next solo adventure.
The July 2029 slot could potentially be filled by a "Fantastic Four" sequel. Following the release of "The Fantastic Four: First Steps" in 2025, a follow-up film could explore both grounded family dynamics and the cosmic adventures typical of the characters.
Other possibilities for these unclaimed dates include a new "Deadpool" spinoff, an "X-Force" project, or "Thor 5." "Doctor Strange 3" is also rumored to be in development, though its realization may depend on the outcome of "Secret Wars." A "Midnight Sons" team-up film featuring supernatural characters like Doctor Strange, Ghost Rider, and Blade is another potential avenue.
With the "Guardians of the Galaxy" trilogy concluded and "The Marvels" underperforming, the cosmic side of the MCU also needs new leadership. "Nova," with Michael Waldron writing, is confirmed to be in development. This film could explore the aftermath of Thanos' destruction of Xandar and establish a new cosmic mythology.
Marvel's Phase 7 slate appears to be shifting focus towards core strengths: mutants, supernatural characters, Wakanda, and cosmic narratives. This strategic direction suggests a move away from endless expansion towards allowing its major characters and franchises more room to develop.