Phase 4 Villain Returns to Wreak Havoc in 2026 MCU Blockbuster

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As a passionate moviegoer, I’m thrilled to share that “Avengers: Doomsday” is set to resurrect a formidable villain from Phase 4 and one of Marvel Comics’ venerable characters for the 2026 blockbuster extravaganza. In an epic, chair-filled livestream spanning a whopping five and a half hours, Marvel Studios unveiled the initial list of no less than 37 talented actors who will be joining the MCU ensemble. The grand finale? None other than Robert Downey Jr., reprising his role as Doctor Doom!

Among the predicted cast announcements for “Avengers: Doomsday,” Tenoch Huerta’s return as Namor stands out as a bit of a shock. His reappearance in “Avengers 5” could potentially have significant effects on the film, considering Namor’s ties to Reed Richards (portrayed by Pedro Pascal), Sue Storm (Vanessa Kirby), and Doctor Doom himself (Robert Downey Jr.).

In a new turn, Huerta first appeared in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as the antagonist of the 2022 film “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” which marked the conclusion of Phase 4. Immediately capturing the hearts of fans everywhere.

Previously, Marvel Studios acknowledged that Namor could potentially reappear in the MCU; however, similar to The Hulk, Universal holds distribution rights for him. This means that a standalone Namor movie is currently impossible, and it also limits how he can be utilized in promotional materials for films like _Black Panther 2_, _Avengers 5_, and others.

In Black Panther 2, it was thrilling to discover that the MCU’s Namor is a mutant with a history spanning over 450 years. Consequently, Tenoch Huerta becomes part of the expanding roster of mutant superheroes in Avengers 5, joining the confirmed X-Men actors like Patrick Stewart and Alan Cumming, among others.

In the upcoming film “Avengers: Doomsday,” it has been verified that Namor won’t be the only villain; also joining him are previously known antagonists such as Doctor Doom (portrayed by Robert Downey Jr.), Magneto (Ian McKellen), Sentry (Lewis Pullman), Ghost (Hannah John-Kamen), and John Walker, played by Wyatt Russell.

It is likely that Huerta will soon appear in front of cameras for the movie “Avengers: Doomsday”, unless he has done so already. The film’s production officially started on Monday, April 28, and it is set to be released on May 1, 2026.

Namor’s MCU Past & His Avengers: Doomsday Role Explained

In a different turn of events, Namor and his subaquatic realm, Talokan, found themselves in conflict with Wakanda, due to their protective stance towards Riri Williams, also known as Ironheart. This young inventor had recently developed a device capable of detecting vibranium, a discovery that potentially threatened the secretive underwater life of Talokan by revealing its existence to the global community.

In a devastating underwater assault, an enemy and their forces inflicted heavy damage upon the nation of Wakanda and tragically claimed the life of its Queen Ramonda. This event propelled her daughter Shuri towards vengeance, leading her ultimately to assume the Black Panther role, vanquishing Namor in the process.

In essence, the two secretive, strong nations united within the film ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’, and in a chilling speech, Namor hinted at the future, implying, “The surface world will seek out Wakanda, and Wakanda will join forces with us.

Interestingly, it was speculated that Doctor Doom would first appear in the Marvel Cinematic Universe through Black Panther 2, a claim made well before it was revealed that he would be portrayed by the previous Iron Man actor, Robert Downey Jr., and introduced from another universe.

Entering the “Avengers: Doomsday”, Shuri could enlist the aid of Talkoan and their Wakandan alliance during a multi-dimensional clash against Doctor Doom. However, it’s possible that his involvement might prove to be much more intricate than initially expected.

Namor and Doctor Doom have been allies, being leaders of their respective nations, who are willing to act ruthlessly when necessary to safeguard their people and interests. However, Namor has a complex dynamic with the Fantastic Four, stemming from his romantic inclinations towards Sue Storm and the subsequent rivalry this creates with Reed Richards.

It’s uncertain if these relationships will factor into future Avengers films or not, but it’s possible he could play a significant part. In the Secret Wars comics, Namor led the Cabal, a team ready to annihilate other dimensions to preserve their own as Incursions were tearing apart the Multiverse.

As a cinema enthusiast immersed in the Marvel Universe, I must say that Namor has had a villainous past in the comics. However, his debut in Black Panther 2 marks a new chapter for him. Despite being well-recognized as a hero in other realms, it remains unclear where his allegiances will stand in the upcoming Avengers films, considering his comic book connections with Doctor Doom, but also hinting at his potential to rise as a significant hero.

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2025-04-29 17:34