Jeremy Renner Confirms No Hawkeye in ‘Avengers Doomsday’ and Jokes About Team’s Fate
Clint Barton’s journey has been one of the most unique among the original Avengers. Jeremy Renner’s portrayal of the archer has been a consistent highlight since the inception of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, standing shoulder to shoulder with gods, billionaires, and super-soldiers, armed only with a bow and his signature humor. His absence from the upcoming team-up film has sparked significant discussion among Marvel fans.
Renner has reprised his role as Clint Barton in four ‘Avengers’ films and the ‘Hawkeye’ series, where he teamed up with Hailee Steinfeld’s Kate Bishop. However, when Marvel unveiled the cast for ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ during its chair-reveal event, Renner was notably absent from the list of returning heroes. This omission has left fans speculating about whether he might still make an appearance.
Recently, Renner addressed the situation with his characteristic wit. At Comic Con Liverpool, he confirmed that Hawkeye will not be part of ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ and humorously remarked that the Avengers might face defeat due to his absence. He also noted that Marvel did not reach out to him, placing the blame for the team’s potential failure squarely on their shoulders.
Jeremy Renner says that he will not return as Hawkeye in ‘AVENGERS: DOOMSDAY’.
“I’m not in it, so the Avengers will probably lose, just so you know… [Marvel] didn’t call me, so it’s their fault. They’re going to lose.” https://t.co/jb3ixGLGYy— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) October 12, 2026
Renner’s playful delivery made it clear that he was joking rather than complaining. He did not elaborate on why he wasn’t contacted, but his tone suggested he has accepted the situation, even if fans are left disappointed.
This aligns with his previous comments from a year ago. During an interview on The Breakfast Club on Power 105.1 FM, he firmly stated that he would not be appearing in ‘Doomsday’ or ‘Avengers: Secret Wars,’ citing his busy schedule. When host Charlamagne tha God joked about the possibility of introducing a Hawkeye variant from another universe, Renner laughed and encouraged them to go for it.
While there is no official explanation for his absence, one insider has suggested that Clint is retired in the current storyline, although they admitted uncertainty about his future. Renner has previously indicated that Hawkeye is the type of hero who often returns from retirement.
In a conversation with ComicBook.com, he mentioned that he would continue working as long as he’s alive. This makes the current situation perplexing, especially since fans anticipated his involvement in such a significant crossover. It’s also possible that Marvel is keeping future plans under wraps, as Kevin Feige has hinted that not all cast members have been disclosed.
Renner has been candid about his future with Marvel. He revealed that the studio offered him half the pay for a second season of ‘Hawkeye,’ expressing his desire to continue but acknowledging the physical demands of the role. Timing has also been a consideration, as he mentioned he may not have been ready last year.
This transparency comes after his serious snowplow accident in 2023, which he has openly discussed during his recovery. He has stated that he is preparing his body to portray the character again. At various times, he has expressed confidence that a second season of ‘Hawkeye’ will eventually materialize.
There is an interesting twist to the narrative. Renner has been confirmed to reprise his role as Hawkeye for ‘Avengers Infinity Defense,’ a new attraction at Avengers Campus in Disney California Adventure. He also shared an Instagram Story featuring the costume in August, coinciding with ‘Doomsday’s’ additional photography, which reignited speculation about his involvement.
While this does not guarantee his appearance in the film, his comments suggest otherwise. Nevertheless, it indicates that his relationship with the studio remains strong, and the costume is still within reach.
He used to be different.
Avengers: Doomsday arrives in theaters everywhere December 18. Get your tickets now: https://t.co/J5PUbxvAkc https://t.co/OUutSMZneq— Marvel Studios (@MarvelStudios) August 15, 2026
Some sources speculate that Renner could return for ‘Secret Wars,’ scheduled for December 17, 2027, although this remains unconfirmed. ‘Doomsday’ is set to hit theaters on December 18, directed by the Russo brothers. With numerous surprises anticipated, it’s premature to dismiss any potential cameo.
For now, Renner’s message is clear and delivered with a smile. If the heroes falter in December, he’ll have a ready-made excuse. Whether Marvel will eventually reach out to him remains uncertain.
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