- Primary Subject: Deadpool's MCU Future (Deadpool 4 / Avengers: Doomsday)
- Key Update: Following a surprise appearance in the newly released X-Men '97 season 2 trailer, Deadpool is officially confirmed to return to the Marvel screen this July ahead of his heavily reported role in December's Avengers: Doomsday.
- Status: Speculation/Reported
- Last Verified: May 29, 2026
- Quick Answer: While Deadpool 4 isn't officially happening, Ryan Reynolds' Merc with a Mouth returns this July in X-Men '97 and December in Avengers: Doomsday.
The massive $1.3 billion box office success of Deadpool & Wolverine proved that Wade Wilson is the shot of adrenaline fans have been waiting for in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
However, ever since the credits rolled, fans have been scouring the internet for confirmation when Ryan Reynolds will don the red-and-black suit again. Luckily, Marvel just gave us our earliest look yet at his imminent return.
When is Deadpool's Highly Anticipated Return to the MCU?
After the Merc brought the X-Men into the MCU through Deadpool & Wolverine, fans are left to wonder what's next for Deadpool. Well, Marvel Studios' latest trailer might just have the answer to that.
First off, Ryan Reynolds will not be playing Deadpool in the anti-hero's next appearance in the franchise. Secondly, it's because Deadpool is set to make a brief cameo in X-Men '97 season 2.
The cameo in question pertains to Morph transforming into Deadpool during an intense fight, and since we can still hear Morph's voice actor, J.P. Karliak, it pretty much confirms that Reynolds won't also be reprising it just to voice the Merc amid the quick appearance.
Will There Be a Deadpool 4? The Merc with a Mouth's Franchise Future
With the Merc with a Mouth's popularity at an all-time high, the burning question remains: will Marvel Studios greenlight a Deadpool 4? As of writing, there are no official plans for a fourth standalone film.
Ryan Reynolds has also been transparent about the physical and creative toll of leading a solo trilogy, explicitly stating that he views Deadpool's future as an "accessory" rather than a main feature moving forward.
Instead of anchoring another solo movie, Reynolds is transitioning Wade Wilson into a supporting powerhouse role, mirroring how Marvel historically utilized Robert Downey Jr.'s Iron Man post-Iron Man 3. But does this mean zero chances for the Merc?
For now, Deadpool is set to appear in X-Men '97 season 2 on July 1, 2026, with Ryan Reynolds likely returning in Avengers: Doomsday, slated for December 18, 2026.
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