No Doctor Doom In Black Panther 2 Is A Relief (But When Will He Appear?)

Doctor Doom is not in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, which is a huge relief for his Marvel Cinematic Universe role. From the moment Marvel Studios gained access to the Fantastic Four characters, theories ran rampant that Doctor Doom would be in Black Panther 2. Rumors circulated throughout the film's development that he was either the main villain or pulling the strings behind Namor and Wakanda's war. This included some beginning to think Doom appearing in Black Panther 2's post-credits scene was an absolute certainty. However, it has since been confirmed Doctor Doom is not in the sequel.

There will likely be many who are disappointed to learn that Doctor Doom is not in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, but it is for the best. The sequel is already a loaded entry for the MCU's future, as it introduces Namor and a new Black Panther. Black Panther 2 also has the responsibility of honoring Chadwick Boseman, who passed away in 2020. His death left the movie without its lead and meant the entire cast and crew had to make it with heavy hearts. Throwing Doctor Doom's MCU debut into the mix could have been cool on some level, but he also would be an extra element that is ultimately unnecessary.

When Will Doctor Doom Appear In The MCU?

Since Doctor Doom is not appearing in Black Panther 2, the common thought might be that he is being saved for Fantastic 4 instead. The MCU's first movie featuring the Fantastic Four would be a natural place to introduce the team's most iconic villain. However, rumors suggest that Marvel might use another character to be the main villain for Fantastic 4. If this is true, it leaves Doctor Doom with a more uncertain place within the MCU's future, while it also could help establish him as a threat to the entire franchise, not just the Fantastic Four.

Looking at the rest of the MCU Phase 5 and 6 slate, there are other projects where Doctor Doom's introduction could happen. Upcoming Disney+ shows like Ironheart and Agatha: Coven of Chaos will have major magic connections, so Doom could make a surprise appearance there to connect himself to that corner of the universe. There is also the chance that Captain America: New World Order could feature Doom's debut, as he could be behind the New World Order villain organization teased in the title. There have even been theories that Doctor Doom will be Thunderbolts' villain. In any case, audiences should see him at some point before Avengers: The Kang Dynasty and Avengers: Secret Wars.

Why It's Better The MCU Takes Its Time With Doctor Doom

Marvel Studios is making the right decision by taking its time to introduce Doctor Doom regardless of where he first appears. He is a villain who could define the next decade of the MCU. Since his past two live-action appearances have not been great, Marvel Studios knows they cannot also mess up the iconic foe. Taking a slow approach hopefully means formulating a better plan for how Doctor Doom can fit into the franchise and what his future holds. It also helps that Kang the Conqueror is commanding everyone's attention right now, giving the MCU some additional time to figure out Doctor Doom's post-Black Panther: Wakanda Forever introduction.

Next: If Doctor Doom Isn't The MCU Fantastic Four Movie's Villain, Who Is?