It’s been over six months since Destin Daniel Cretton stepped down as the director of the next Avengers movie. And if that film is going to be ready for its 2026 release date then it needs a new director soon. But with Deadpool and Wolverine looking to reignite the MCU this summer, Marvel is reportedly looking to the director of that film, Shawn Levy, to helm the sequel formerly known as Avengers: The Kang Dynasty.
Via Deadline, it sounds like the job is Levy’s to lose. The report calls Levy “the top choice” for Marvel Studios, and notes that he’s read the current draft of the script by Loki’s Michael Waldron. However, Levy has not given Marvel his decision about whether he will take over the film. In the meantime, Marvel will reportedly meet with other directors in case Levy passes.
Deadpool and Wolverine isn’t the only reason why Levy’s stock is so high at Marvel. He has over two decades of experience as a director, and a proven track record that includes the Night at the Museum films, Real Steel, Date Night, and The Adam Project among others. Levy was already signed with Lucasfilm to develop a Star Wars movie after Deadpool and Wolverine, and may still have some work to do on the fifth and final season of Stranger Things.
Story details about Avengers 5 are scarce, but it may no longer feature Kang as the lead villain following Jonathan Majors’ dismissal from Marvel. Regardless, a number of current and former MCU actors will be featured. Deadline’s report suggests that “more than 60 MCU character” may appear.
Avengers 5 will hit theaters on May 1, 2026.
