In a massive Marvel surprise, Avengers: Infinity War and Endgame directors Joe and Anthony Russo, best known as the Russo brothers, are reportedly in talks to return to the MCU to direct the next two Avengers films.
According to a report from The Hollywood Reporter (THR), discussions are still in the early stages. IGN has reached out to Disney for comment, but no official statements have been made yet.
The Journey to Avengers 5 and 6
The news of the Russo brothers’ potential return is part of an ongoing saga surrounding the next Avengers movies. Initially, Shawn Levy, known for directing Deadpool & Wolverine, was Marvel’s top choice for Avengers 5. Despite turning down the offer in the past, Levy’s name, along with several others, was still in contention. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings director Destin Daniel Cretton was also set to direct but stepped away in November 2023.
That same month, the project saw another major change: Loki writer Michael Waldron took over script duties from Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania scribe Jeff Loveness. Waldron is also penning the sixth Avengers movie, Avengers: Secret Wars.
Challenges and Changes
Originally titled Avengers: The Kang Dynasty, the approach to Avengers 5 shifted significantly after the conviction of Kang actor Jonathan Majors in his domestic violence trial and his subsequent firing from the MCU. Marvel has not yet announced a new title for the film, but more details are expected during the big San Diego Comic-Con panel next Saturday.
The Russo Brothers’ MCU Legacy
The Russo brothers’ potential return signals Marvel’s desire to recapture the glory days of the Infinity Saga. The Russos were pivotal figures in the MCU during the 2010s, directing blockbuster hits like Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Captain America: Civil War, and the two monumental Avengers films. Avengers: Endgame still holds the distinction of being the second-highest-grossing film of all time, earning $2.7 billion.
Life After Marvel
Since stepping away from the MCU, Joe and Anthony Russo have explored various non-franchise projects. They’ve directed Netflix’s action film The Gray Man and executive produced several successful ventures, including Prime Video’s series Citadel and the Oscar-winning film Everything Everywhere All at Once. They first made their mark in Hollywood through their work on comedies like Arrested Development and Community.
What’s Next for the Avengers?
Avengers 5 is currently set to release on May 1, 2026, with Avengers: Secret Wars scheduled for May 7, 2027. As the MCU evolves, the potential return of the Russo brothers could bring a familiar touch to the beloved franchise, reigniting excitement among fans.
Sources:
gfpods.com 
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