Setback Emerges for Ryan Reynolds’ MCU Return, Disappointing Update Given

Ryan Reynolds helped turn Deadpool from a cult comic figure into one of Hollywood’s most recognizable anti-heroes. Yet despite the character’s long-awaited arrival in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, new comments from Reynolds and Deadpool co-creator Rob Liefeld suggest fans may be waiting longer than expected for the next chapter.

Deadpool’s crossover into the MCU was a major milestone for Marvel Studios. Following Disney’s 2019 acquisition of 21st Century Fox, the studio gained access to characters like Deadpool and the X-Men, who had long existed outside its interconnected film universe. Not only that, but it confirmed that it would retain the character’s R-rated spirit, something many feared would be scrubbed by the Mouse.

Last year’s Deadpool & Wolverine (2024) officially brought Wade Wilson into Marvel’s Multiverse, with Deadpool teaming up with a reluctant Wolverine from an alternate timeline to stop a threat capable of destroying the Multiverse – and, consequently, the MCU – itself.

The character’s arrival was celebrated not just on-screen, but also at Disney’s theme parks. Disneyland Resort and Disneyland Paris introduced Deadpool meet-and-greet events for the first time, solidifying the character’s place within the Disney and Marvel family.

Liefeld Moves to Shut Down New Deadpool Rumors

In the months following Deadpool & Wolverine, Reynolds hinted at his continued enthusiasm for playing the character, though he made it clear that no new projects had been confirmed. “There are no updates to share just yet, but I trust Kevin [Feige] and Lou D’Esposito with my life,” Reynolds said last December. He also pointed to Deadpool’s “enthusiasm and longing to be part of a team” as one of his favorite elements of the character.

Still, speculation reignited this week after Reynolds mentioned during an interview that he was “writing something right now,” describing it as “a little ensemble.” Many fans interpreted the comment as a sign that a new Deadpool-led ensemble film was quietly in development.

Rob Liefeld quickly stepped in to clarify the situation. Posting on X, formerly known as Twitter, Liefeld wrote, “Gentle reminder that he is writing a movie called ‘Boy Band.'” According to Liefeld, Reynolds’ comments were about a separate project entirely, not about a future Deadpool film.

Gentle reminder that he is writing a movie called “Boy Band”

Gentle reminder that he is writing a movie called “Boy Band” https://t.co/vwKIKgo77Q

— robliefeld (@robertliefeld) April 24, 2025

 

As of now, no standalone Deadpool 4 project has been officially announced. The next likely appearance for Reynolds’ character is expected to come through broader MCU ensemble films, such as a future Avengers entry.

Would you like to see Ryan Reynolds back as Deadpool?