"We Haven't Shot That One" — Mark Ruffalo Hints at Chris Hemsworth's Return in Avengers: Secret Wars
In a surprising twist, Hulk actor Mark Ruffalo may have inadvertently revealed that Chris Hemsworth, known for his role as Thor, will be making a comeback in the upcoming Avengers: Secret Wars.
During a recent interview with Buzzfeed, both actors were challenged to tally up the number of superhero films they have participated in. During this lighthearted exchange, Ruffalo mistakenly stated that Hemsworth had featured in six Avengers movies, despite the actor's current total being five, which includes an announced role in the soon-to-be-released Avengers: Doomsday.
This slip-up didn’t go unnoticed, and eager Marvel fans quickly circulated the clip across social media platforms, interpreting it as a hint that Thor survives the events of Doomsday and will be present for the sequel. Furthermore, there seems to be an implication that Ruffalo’s comments suggest that Hulk will also make it through to Secret Wars.
While many fans weren’t shocked to hear that both Hulk and Thor are likely spared from the grim fate that has befallen other characters in Doomsday, Hemsworth had previously stirred some speculation about exiting the role. He had expressed heartfelt gratitude for his time as Thor, a statement that many interpreted as a farewell message (though he later clarified that it was misconstrued).
The recently released trailer for Avengers: Doomsday set a somber mood, showcasing Thor seeking strength from his deceased father, hoping to return to his daughter. This raises ongoing questions about how long these actors intend to continue portraying their beloved characters, which have dominated their careers for over a decade.
In the playful counting segment, Hemsworth can be heard saying, "One, two, three, four — how many have we done?" To which Ruffalo confidently responds, "Six." Hemsworth, taken aback, exclaims, "Six?!" Ruffalo quickly adds, "Well, there will be." After some more counting, Hemsworth concludes, "Yeah, but we haven't shot that one."
For those trying to keep track, four Avengers films have been released so far: The Avengers, Age of Ultron, Infinity War, and Endgame, with Avengers: Doomsday already filmed and set for release. If Secret Wars indeed turns out to be the sixth film, it would seemingly put to rest the theory that Marvel is secretly planning to split Secret Wars into two parts for a new Avengers trilogy.
However, even if Thor or Hulk makes an appearance in the multiverse of Secret Wars, the nature of their return remains uncertain. Should Hemsworth reprise his role, it might come in the form of a flashback, an alternate version of Thor, or even a haunting scene set in Valhalla with characters like Jane and Heimdall.
At present, Marvel has kept tight-lipped regarding details about Secret Wars, choosing instead to focus on Doomsday. There hasn't been any official announcement concerning the cast for Secret Wars, as revealing such information would obviously spoil upcoming plotlines. Nevertheless, recent reports indicated that Sadie Sink from Stranger Things is set to reprise her role from Spider-Man: Brand New Day in the movie, which has ignited further speculation about her character's significance.
Image credit: Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for SiriusXM.
Tom Phillips serves as the News Editor at IGN. You can connect with him via email at tom_phillips@ign.com or follow him on Bluesky @tomphillipseg.bsky.social.
What are your thoughts on the potential returns of Thor and Hulk in Secret Wars? Do you think Hemsworth is truly done with the character? Share your opinions in the comments below!
