Avengers: Doomsday TV Spot Draws Scrutiny Over Steve Rogers VFX and Thor’s Deadpan Reaction

Key points

• Fans compared the latest TV spot to the first trailer and observed differences in Chris Evans’ facial features, specifically his nose and hairline, leading to speculation about VFX usage.
• Some viewers suggested the changes might be intended to make Evans look younger, matching his 2019 appearance in Avengers: Endgame, while others proposed wild theories involving Loki disguising himself as Steve Rogers.
• The spot features a scene at Avengers Tower where Scott Lang calls Steve Rogers 'Cap,' causing an awkward reaction from Sam Wilson, the current Captain America, with John Walker also present.
• Thor’s deadpan facial expression while watching this exchange has become a focal point for fan humor, with many commenting that he appears exhausted by his teammates.
• The clip also shows Steve Rogers summoning Mjolnir, confirming his worthiness, and includes a warning from Thor about the existential threat posed by Doctor Doom.

Background

This marketing push follows a series of promotional events in late October 2026. Marvel previously released a brief teaser during the MLB World Series, which drew criticism for its brevity. A subsequent trailer featuring the same 'Cap' joke sparked backlash from fans who felt it undermined Anthony Mackie’s legitimacy as the current Captain America. Additionally, a re-release of Avengers: Endgame recently debuted new footage teasing Doomsday, helping it reclaim the top box office spot.

How outlets are covering it

ComicBookMovie.com focuses on the technical aspects of the new footage, highlighting the perceived VFX changes to Chris Evans’ appearance and the resulting fan theories. They note that the shots may simply be from different angles or lighting conditions, but the visual discrepancy is undeniable. In contrast, Yahoo emphasizes the comedic and social media reaction to the spot, specifically focusing on Thor’s unimpressed expression during the awkward interaction between Ant-Man, Steve Rogers, and Sam Wilson. While ComicBookMovie explores the mystery of the visual changes, Yahoo highlights the humor and relatability of Thor’s reaction, which has become the dominant topic among fans.

Why it matters

The reaction to the TV spot indicates the high level of scrutiny fans are applying to the final marketing materials for a major Marvel release. The debate over VFX changes and the controversy surrounding the 'Cap' joke reflect broader tensions in the MCU regarding character continuity and the handling of legacy heroes. These reactions may influence audience expectations and reception of the film upon its December 18 release.

What to watch

Marvel Studios is expected to release further promotional materials for Avengers: Doomsday in the weeks leading up to its December 18, 2026, theatrical release. The studio may address the VFX questions or the backlash regarding the 'Cap' joke in future interviews or press events. The film is the first in a two-part saga, with Avengers: Secret Wars following later in the year.