Marvel Studios has faced significant shifts in its plans for the MCU, particularly concerning the Avengers: Kang Dynasty film & an underrated superhero, Shang-Chi.
The martial arts master, portrayed by Simu Liu, was originally set to be one of the main characters in Avengers: Kang Dynasty.
However, recent developments have shifted the focus of the upcoming Avengers films, leaving fans wondering when, or if, Shang-Chi will make his much-anticipated return to the MCU.
Impact of Jonathan Majors’ Legal Troubles on the Original Plan for Shang-Chi
After the success of Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings in 2021, Marvel intended to elevate Shang-Chi’s role within the Avengers, positioning him as a key player in the upcoming battle against Kang.
This would have been a significant move, integrating one of the newer characters into the core narrative of the MCU’s next phase.
The turning point came when Jonathan Majors, who was set to be the MCU’s next big villain, was found guilty of assault and harassment in late 2023.
This legal outcome forced Marvel to reassess its plans for the Kang Dynasty storyline.
Majors’ legal issues not only led to his removal from the role but also triggered a broader rethinking of the MCU’s villain strategy.
With Majors’ exit, Marvel has reportedly pivoted to focus on Doctor Doom as the new primary antagonist, marking the return of Robert Downey Jr. in a completely different role from his previous portrayal of Iron Man.
This shift has inevitably pushed characters like Shang-Chi into the background as the studio retools its storyline to accommodate these major changes.
What’s Next for Shang-Chi?
As of now, the future of Shang-Chi in the MCU remains uncertain.
While Simu Liu has hinted that a sequel to Shang-Chi is “definitely happening,” the timeline for such a project is unclear, especially with the ongoing reshuffling of Marvel’s upcoming films.
There’s speculation that Shang-Chi might still play a role in Avengers: Doomsday or Secret Wars, but these plans have yet to be confirmed.
The delays and changes in direction reflect broader challenges Marvel faces in its post-Endgame era, particularly in integrating new characters into its evolving narrative.
While Shang-Chi’s role may have been reduced in the immediate future, there’s still hope that he will regain prominence in the MCU’s next phase.