Fans are scrutinizing the new trailer for Marvel Studios' Avengers: Doomsday, with many believing the studio has used editing to conceal the presence of certain characters. This practice is not new for Marvel, which has a history of manipulating trailer footage to mislead audiences, as seen in previous Avengers films and titles like Thunderbolts* and The New Avengers.
The current focus is a scene depicting various Avengers, New Avengers, and the Fantastic Four assembling. Viewers suspect that spaces within this shot have been intentionally left empty through editing to hide other key players. A prominent theory suggests that Doctor Doom, making his first appearance in the trailer with Robert Downey Jr. reprising the role, might initially pose as an ally before revealing his true intentions.
Other potential hidden characters include Loki, whose role remains ambiguous, and possibly even Spider-Man, to avoid spoiling developments in Spider-Man: Brand New Day. Doctor Strange, Captain Marvel, and members of the Eternals have also been mentioned as possibilities by fans.
This suspicion is amplified by Marvel's past trailer editing tactics. For instance, a scene in the Spider-Man: No Way Home trailer was altered to hide the appearances of Andrew Garfield and Tobey Maguire. Similar deceptions occurred in Avengers: Infinity War, where the Hulk was shown charging into battle despite not doing so in the final film, and the Infinity Stones were removed from Thanos' gauntlet. Avengers: Endgame trailers also featured altered visuals, such as Captain America's intact shield, to conceal plot points.
Beyond hidden characters, the trailer has also fueled speculation about Steve Rogers. A particular shot featuring a bearded Steve Rogers has led some fans to theorize that this iteration may not be the same version seen in a prior teaser, suggesting a potential turn to villainy, perhaps aligning with Hydra.
Adding to the promotional material, a new Avengers: Doomsday poster has been released, offering hints about Doctor Doom's motivations. The film's official synopsis states that "Universes collide and the Multiverse Saga begins its final chapter in Marvel Studios' Avengers: Doomsday." It promises that heroes from multiple universes will face an unprecedented existential threat, setting the stage for the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Avengers: Doomsday is scheduled to premiere in theaters on December 18, 2026.