Exciting Upcoming MCU Releases and Storylines in 2026

Since 2019, Screen Rant's Kevin Erdmann has covered a vast array of superhero and Star Wars content, offering fans deep dives into lore, breaking news, and exclusive interviews from industry events like D23.

With eight years of experience chronicling entertainment and pop culture, Kevin has interviewed top creators and attended major media events, bringing readers insider perspectives on blockbuster franchises.

Majoring in Cinema Studies and minoring in Comics and Cartoon Studies from the University of Oregon, Kevin resides in Oregon with his family, including his wife, dog, and cat who secretly plots his downfall.

The End of Daredevil and Fisk's Vigilante War (Daredevil: Born Again Season 2)

Anticipation builds for the conclusion of one of the MCU's most gripping sagas. After rebuilding the multiverse, 2026 sees a surge in compelling street-level stories and the start of an epic arc culminating in a major crossover event.

Long-awaited character returns and massive team-ups are set to define the year, with Daredevil's final showdown against Wilson Fisk promising to be the most intense yet.

The Return Of The Punisher (Punisher: One Last Kill/Spider-Man: Brand New Day)

Jon Bernthal's Punisher makes a highly anticipated comeback, first appearing in Daredevil: Born Again Season 1 and now returning in a 60-minute special written by Bernthal himself. Fans can expect brutal action in this standalone film and a surprise appearance in Spider-Man: Brand New Day alongside Tom Holland's web-slinger.

Spider-Man's New Powers (Spider-Man: Brand New Day)

In Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Peter Parker gains organic webbing abilities reminiscent of Tobey Maguire's iconic portrayal, adding fresh dynamics to his superhero journey as he navigates new challenges.

The Return of Savage Hulk (Spider-Man: Brand New Day)

Mark Ruffalo's Bruce Banner is rumored to take on the role of Savage Hulk, fulfilling long-time fan speculation. This return could bring the angry, monstrous version of the Hulk back to the big screen, creating thrilling possibilities for team-ups with Spider-Man.

The Reveal Of Sadie Sink's MCU Character (Spider-Man: Brand New Day)

Sadie Sink's role in the Spider-Man universe has sparked widespread theories. Potential characters range from Gwen Stacy to a new villain, making her eventual reveal one of the most buzzed-about moments of the year.

Gladiator: Rise of the Northman (Gladiator II)

Dwayne Johnson returns as Maximus Decimus Meridius in Ridley Scott's sequel, continuing his quest for vengeance against the corrupt emperor Commodus in a story set to expand the epic scope of the franchise.

Deadpool & Wolverine (Deadpool 3)

Rumors swirl about Ryan Reynolds' Deadpool joining forces with Hugh Jackman's Wolverine in what could be the ultimate Marvel crossover. Both characters' histories with the X-Men make this potential partnership highly anticipated among fans.