Ryan Reynolds' next move has fans anticipating ‘Deadpool 4’ as uncertainty looms in MCU
Although the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe is most definitely carved out with the impending ensemble films 'Avengers: Doomsday' and 'Avengers: Secret Wars', one would have to take a closer look at recent developments to determine Deadpool's place in the larger scheme of things. The famous Merc with a Mouth was last seen in the highest-grossing R-rated film of all time, 'Deadpool & Wolverine', back in 2024, and ever since then, the fate of the 'Deadpool' franchise has been left hanging in the balance.
As is widely known, Reynolds' wife, Blake Lively, is currently involved in a legal battle against director Justin Baldoni over a s****l harassment complaint, as per Superhero Hype. Also, Puck recently published a report outlining the impact of this lawsuit on Reynolds' upcoming projects and dropping a major update on the potential 'Deadpool 4' movie. According to Movie Web, Reynolds recently revealed that he is focused on creating the next installment of the franchise. However, the potential film might not come across as predictable, with the actor hinting that Wade Wilson might play his own part amidst other superheroes, preferably mutants.
Although 'Deadpool & Wolverine' was a massive global success, grossing more than $1.3 billion worldwide, both Disney and Marvel seem reluctant to follow up on it. It was reported by Variety magazine in May 2025 that Marvel felt 'no sense of urgency' in fast-tracking a fourth 'Deadpool' movie, choosing instead to focus on their other titles such as 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' and the upcoming 'Avengers' movie, which hits theatres in December this year.
If the report by Puck is to be believed, Reynolds might be opting for the next instalment in a way that puts his character in the league with the other mutants from X-Men. Reynolds' name was missing from the MCU's announcement of the 'Avengers: Doomsday' cast. Nevertheless, it has long been speculated that he might show up in a cameo or even confront Reed Richards. All of this remains in the realm of speculation, as an official confirmation has yet to arrive.
Back in December 2024, Reynolds had shared his ideas for Deadpool and Wolverine's futures in the MCU as side players, "I have some pitches and ideas, but none of them centre on Deadpool,” Reynolds said. “He is a great supporting or ensemble player. And I would always want Deadpool and Wolverine paired together in some way. Centering Deadpool works best if you take everything away from him and put his back against the wall. I can’t really do that again. A fourth time feels a little iterative and redundant. That doesn’t mean sacrificing fun. There is still an arc for Deadpool, which is fulfilling and powerful." 'Deadpool & Wolverine' is available for streaming on Disney+.
