Ryan Reynolds Signals End of Deadpool as Solo Lead, Shifts Character to Ensemble Role in Future Marvel Films

Ryan Reynolds says Deadpool is likely done as a solo lead, but not gone from Marvel’s future.

In recent interviews, including an appearance on Sunday Today, Reynolds explained that he has been working on new material for the character. However, he does not plan to center another standalone film around Deadpool.

“I have some stuff kind of written, but I don’t think I am ever going to center him again,” Reynolds said. “He is a supporting character. He is a guy who is great in a group.”

Reynolds indicated that the main reason is creative. He believes Deadpool works best as an underdog—someone on the outside with everything against him. Repeating that formula in a fourth solo film, he said, would feel “iterative and redundant.” In his view, the character may have already reached a natural peak as a lead with Deadpool & Wolverine.

Instead, Reynolds sees Deadpool continuing in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as part of ensemble casts. He emphasized that the character’s identity depends on not fully belonging. “If he becomes an Avenger or an X-Man, we’re at the end of his journey,” he said, suggesting that full acceptance would undermine the character’s core appeal.

There is already speculation about where Deadpool might appear next. Industry reports and fan discussion point to a possible role in Avengers: Doomsday, which is scheduled for release in December 2026. Reynolds has avoided confirming details, but has acknowledged ongoing conversations about future appearances.

Positioning Deadpool as a supporting character would give Marvel flexibility to include him in different projects. Possible options include team-based films such as X-Force or Midnight Suns, where he could serve as a comedic counterbalance without carrying the entire story.

While Deadpool’s role evolves, Reynolds remains active with other projects. His upcoming work includes Mayday, set to release on Apple TV in September 2026, and Animal Friends, an R-rated hybrid film co-starring Jason Momoa, scheduled for January 2027. He is also developing an adaptation of Eloise.

For now, Deadpool appears set to stay in the Marvel universe—but no longer at its center.