The Marvel Cinematic Universe just dropped a major nostalgia bomb with the return of beloved X-Men characters in the highly anticipated crossover event.
In the newly released third trailer for Avengers: Doomsday, James Marsden makes his long-awaited return as Cyclops, alongside Patrick Stewart's Professor X and Ian McKellen's Magneto. The teaser showcases the classic X-Men characters re-entering the MCU for the first time in years.
The preview opens with a contemplative exchange between Professor X and Magneto discussing mortality before cutting to Marsden's Scott Summers suiting up in his iconic visor. The footage confirms the X-Men will join forces with other Marvel heroes—including Thor and Steve Rogers—to battle Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom.
Marsden last played Cyclops in 2006's X-Men: The Last Stand, where his character met his demise. Speaking about the comeback last summer, the actor acknowledged fans' decades-long anticipation and admitted he was concerned about fitting into the costume after 20 years away from the role.
The return of these iconic characters marks a significant moment for Marvel as the studio continues to expand its cinematic universe by bringing together heroes from different franchises. The film will see everyone from the original X-Men to the Fantastic Four facing off against one of Marvel's most formidable villains.
Directed by Joe and Anthony Russo, who previously helmed Avengers: Endgame, the film represents one of two major Avengers movies set to release this year. Avengers: Doomsday hits theaters on December 18, 2026.
