Fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) have reason to celebrate: Simu Liu is returning as Shang-Chi in the highly anticipated Avengers: Doomsday, scheduled for release on December 18, 2026. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the 36-year-old actor shared his excitement about rejoining the MCU alongside some of the legendary actors he grew up idolizing.

Here’s everything we know about Liu’s return, his thoughts on reprising Shang-Chi, and what fans can expect from the next Avengers blockbuster.

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Simu Liu Excited to Reprise Shang-Chi

Simu Liu first brought Shang-Chi to life in 2021’s Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, introducing audiences to Marvel’s first Asian superhero lead. The role quickly became a fan favorite, and Liu says reprising it for Avengers: Doomsday is deeply meaningful.

“It means everything. It’s such a privilege to have played a character that resonated with so many different people,” Liu told PEOPLE.

He also praised fans for their unwavering support, noting how much the audience has propelled his career.

“Somebody tells me in some way, shape, or form—every single day of my life and oftentimes multiple times a day—about wanting more Shang-Chi in the MCU,” Liu said.

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Working with Marvel Legends

One of the highlights for Liu is sharing the screen with some of the MCU legends he idolized growing up.

“Part of that is getting to put the suit back on again, except with these incredible legendary actors, many of whom I grew up idolizing and worshiping. Now, I get to call them my co-workers,” Liu shared.

This includes MCU veterans such as Robert Downey Jr., Chris Hemsworth, Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson, Mark Ruffalo, Jeremy Renner, and newer stars like Letitia Wright. Additionally, Avengers: Doomsday will feature characters from the Fantastic Four, Thunderbolts, and X-Men franchises, making it one of the largest ensemble casts in MCU history.

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Shang-Chi’s MCU Journey

Since his debut, Liu’s Shang-Chi hasn’t appeared in any other Marvel films, leaving fans eager for his return. The actor revealed that he and the Shang-Chi cast keep in touch regularly, emphasizing the bond they formed during the first film.

“The Shang-Chi group text is still very active just because it was such a unique experience,” Liu said. “So is something like Avengers: Doomsday, which is just a gargantuan production… I’ll remember it for the rest of my life.”

Liu also reflected on the personal impact of the role:

“[Shang-Chi] has given me absolutely everything in my life. I would go as far as to say that I’ve been chasing that feeling ever since.”

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Liu’s Other Projects

In addition to reprising Shang-Chi, Liu recently starred in Netflix’s animated film In Your Dreams, released November 14, 2025. He voices the character of Dad, alongside Cristin Milioti, Craig Robinson, Omid Djalili, and Gia Carides. The film, directed by Alex Woo, is now available to stream on Netflix.

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Avengers: Doomsday Release and Expectations

Avengers: Doomsday will hit theaters on December 18, 2026, with Avengers: Secret Wars following on December 17, 2027. Fans can anticipate an epic gathering of MCU heroes and villains, including Doctor Doom (Robert Downey Jr.), Shang-Chi (Simu Liu), Thor (Chris Hemsworth), Captain America (Anthony Mackie), and more.

The film promises to blend action, drama, and Marvel’s signature humor, while continuing the overarching storylines of the MCU’s newest and most veteran heroes.