7 Years Post-Avengers: Endgame, Marvel Can Finally Explore a Key Comic Reference from the MCU

Seven years after the events of Avengers: Endgame, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) finds itself in a promising position to revisit one of the most intriguing comic references from the film. Recently, reports have emerged revealing that Chris Evans is set to reprise a role in the upcoming Avengers installment. This opens the door for the MCU to establish a striking connection between the film and the original comic book narratives.

According to an exclusive report from The Wrap, Chris Evans is slated to return in 2026’s Avengers: Doomsday. The specifics of his character’s return, however, remain unclear. He could potentially don his iconic Captain America mantle once again, revisit his earlier role as Johnny Storm (the Human Torch) from the early Marvel films, or even enter as a brand-new character. This follows the trend set by Robert Downey Jr., who is rumored to take on the role of the formidable Marvel villain, Doctor Doom. This ambiguity creates an exciting potential for the MCU to deepen the reference initiated in *Endgame*.

The “Hail Hydra”Scene in Avengers: Endgame

Drawing from Captain America: The Winter Soldier and the 2017 Secret Empire Crossover

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ugXMDVLn-8

Avengers Endgame "Hail Hydra" Scene (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ugXMDVLn-8)

In *Avengers: Endgame*, Steve Rogers encounters a tense moment when he finds himself trapped in an elevator full of Hydra agents during the Time Heist. This scenario mirrors an intense sequence from *Captain America: The Winter Soldier*. However, instead of a fierce confrontation, he cleverly whispers “Hail Hydra”in Agent Sitwell’s ear, tricking him into believing he is one of their own within SHIELD’s ranks.

The choice of Captain America, known for his unwavering moral compass, uttering “Hail Hydra”also serves as a direct nod to the *Secret Empire* comic storyline. In this controversial crossover, Rogers is revealed as a covert Hydra agent, manipulated by the Red Skull into a dark version of himself, known as “Hydra Supreme.”He goes on to take control over the nation, subduing many heroes before the revelation is ultimately reversed. This compelling comic moment presents a unique opportunity for the MCU to explore further, especially with the upcoming release of *Avengers: Doomsday*.

Potential Impact of Chris Evans’ Role in Avengers: Doomsday

Could He Become “Hydra Supreme”for Real?

Chris Evans as a dark version of Steve Rogers

Custom image of Captain America as Hydra Supreme

As the Multiverse Saga leads up to *Doomsday* and the anticipated *Avengers: Secret Wars*, the prospect of Chris Evans returning as a “Hydra Supreme”variant of Captain America is increasingly plausible. With Robert Downey Jr. stepping back into a villainous role, it raises the question: why not Evans? While there are numerous possibilities for his character’s return, embracing a darker, villainous angle would not only be exhilarating but also provide a meaningful resolution to the *Endgame* reference that fans are eager to see explored.

Mark your calendars: Avengers: Doomsday is set to hit theaters on May 1, 2026.

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