Chris Evans, the star who brought Captain America to life in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), has firmly stated that he will not be returning to the franchise, debunking rumors about his involvement in "Avengers Doomsday" or any other future films. In an interview with Esquire, Evans dismissed a report from Deadline suggesting that he would reprise his role alongside Robert Downey Jr., who is confirmed to return as Iron Man. "That's not true, though," Evans clarified, emphasizing his contentment with retirement from the MCU.

The rumors began swirling after Anthony Mackie, who succeeded Evans as Captain America following "Avengers: Endgame," mentioned to Esquire that he had heard from his manager that Evans might return. However, Mackie later spoke directly with Evans, who confirmed he had no plans to come back. "I talked to Chris a few weeks ago and it wasn’t on the table then," Mackie recounted. "At least, he didn’t tell me it was on the table, because I asked him."

Despite his retirement from the MCU, Evans did make a brief return to the Marvel universe in "Deadpool & Wolverine," where he reprised his role as Johnny Storm from the Fox franchise. This cameo, however, was more of a comedic side role and not a continuation of his Captain America storyline.

The MCU is currently navigating through some uncertainty following the departure of Jonathan Majors, who was set to be the next major antagonist, Kang. Majors was dropped from the franchise after being found guilty of assault and harassment. In response, Marvel has announced that Robert Downey Jr. will portray Doctor Doom, sparking speculation about the return of other original Avengers, though no further confirmations have been made.

In other MCU news, Benedict Cumberbatch, who plays Doctor Strange, has confirmed that he will not be part of "Avengers Doomsday" but will have a "central role" in its sequel, "Avengers Secret Wars." The Russo Brothers, known for directing previous Avengers films, are set to helm "Avengers Secret Wars," which will continue the multiverse narrative, with Hayley Atwell's Agent Carter also expected to appear.