Marvel Studios is making changes to its upcoming film schedule, which means several highly anticipated projects are being delayed. Insider Daniel Richtman says that filming for both Doctor Strange 3 and Shang-Chi 2 isn’t expected to start until 2026.
This delay affects important films that were supposed to be key parts of the Multiverse Saga. The reasons for these delays are complex and include the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Hollywood strikes in 2023, and internal changes within Disney. Marvel Studios is reassessing its priorities, which may change how these films fit into the larger Marvel Cinematic Universe storyline.
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The planned connection between the Shang-Chi sequel and Kang the Conqueror hinted at in Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, may also change. Both movies might be reworked to fit better into the upcoming Mutant Saga. While the specific storyline for the Shang-Chi sequel is still uncertain, director Destin Daniel Cretton will be involved, and star Simu Liu is excited about it. Similarly, Sam Raimi is expected to return as the director for Doctor Strange 3. However, there might be a scheduling conflict with Cretton, also working on Spider-Man 4.
On a positive note, a long-expected Marvel project, Strange Academy, has been officially approved. This series will likely follow Wong, played by Benedict Wong, as he trains new sorcerers after the events at Kamar-Taj. This indicates a focus on character development and expanding the magical side of the MCU.
Benedict Cumberbatch, who plays Doctor Strange, recently confirmed that he will be in Avengers: Doomsday, which is set to start filming this year.
Source: Daniel Richtman
