While the return of Andrew Garfield and Tobey Maguire to the role of Spider-Man hasn't quite been officially confirmed yet, it seems like the perfect time to revisit some other shocking comebacks from across Marvel cinematic history. Unless a character has been killed off, it might not be their last appearance on screen (and even death isn't always final).
Whether they had seemingly been removed from the MCU altogether, or there were a number of issues between the actors themselves and the studio, all of these characters made a comeback (despite fans thinking that their time in the Marvel Universe was over for good.)
Thaddeus Ross
Thaddeus Ross was the arch-enemy to Bruce Banner's Hulk in the original MCU version of the character that appeared in The Incredible Hulk. Thanks to the casting changes of the lead, The Incredible Hulk is a largely ignored part of continuity.
That is why the return of Thunderbolt Ross to the MCU caught many by surprise. Ross has appeared a couple of times now and will make his return once again in the alongside other potential future appearances.
Emil Blonsky
Emil Blonsky made the terrible decision to experiment on himself, thus transforming into the Abomination. Another character from The Incredible Hulk, asides from a few brief mentions about his imprisonment, the character was also left in the past.
With fans have started to wonder what comic book storylines it may adapt. Marvel Studios have a clear plan which will see the return of Blonsky, with Tim Roth actually reprising the role. The announcement marks one of the most surprising returns in the company's history.
Darcy Lewis
Darcy Lewis has always had mixed responses from fans. She has appeared previously alongside Thor in two films in the MCU but wasn't seen since. The genius scientist was great for providing exposition and comic relief. As these movies further ballooned though, there seemed like there wasn't a place for her.
WandaVision has seen Darcy make a huge comeback and fans are back on board with the hilarious character. She's already got great chemistry with Jimmy Woo and her place in the future of the MCU might actually be sealed thanks to this performance.
Jane Foster
Speaking of the Thor franchise, the God of Thunder's love interest, Jane Foster, hasn't been seen in a while either. Thanks to contractual problems with Marvel Studios, as well as not being happy with her role in the franchise, Natalie Portman walked away from the MCU.
However, it came as a great surprise to fans when Jane Foster briefly returned in the Avenger's time-traveling adventures. In even better news, it has now been revealed that Foster is making a comeback as the Mighty Thor. She will be wielding Mjolnir just like in the comics!
Red Skull
The Red Skull was Captain America's very first opponent before he was seemingly killed by the Tessaract. Hugo Weaving aired his grievances with the studio and the two parted ways, seemingly ending the Red Skull's run in the movies.
However, it turns out the Tessaract actually transported the Red Skull into space. The character has since made two appearances, with a different actor in the role. Fans were thrilled by the fact that Cap and Skull may face off against one another one more time.
Agent Coulson
Agent Coulson has been killed so many times that it's really hard to keep track. The character has evolved greatly over the years, in both the MCU films and the TV shows. However, each time it seems like he has finally met his maker, he comes back stronger than ever.
Coulson is now a life model decoy, a sort of android which still has the personality of the original Coulson. It might be possible to finally get a scene down the line where the Avengers can see that Coulson is still alive; a big shock to them, much like audiences at the time.
Vision
Vision was brutally murdered by Thanos to retrieve the Infinity Stone in his head. No amount of time travel could reverse this from happening, but the Scarlet Witch has somehow found a way to bring him back to life.
In WandaVision, fans were shocked to see Vision around again, despite his death. As the series unfolds, it's clear that, like in the comics, the Vision may have not truly been revived, but instead is a shell of what he used to be.
Quicksilver
Quicksilver also met a tragic fate in the MCU. Shot down by Ultron, fans had speculated he might make some kind of appearance in WandaVision, although no one expected who would actually be behind the role.
Evan Peters returned as Pietro, except not the Marvel Studios version. The Quicksilver from the FOX Marvel films, this version of Wanda's brother might not be quite what he appears to be. His return to a new universe certainly shocked audiences though.
Monica Rambeau
Monica Rambeau was featured in Captain Marvel as the daughter of Carol Danvers' best friend. Fans didn't expect the character to have aged up so quickly though, appearing once again in the MCU as part of S.W.O.R.D. in WandaVision.
While the character has yet to exhibit any of the powers she displays in the comics, it's still a great addition to see Rambeau brought back in some capacity. She will likely have a role in the future of the Captain Marvel franchise and become more of an MCU regular.
The 'Snapped'
The end of Avengers: Infinity War saw Thanos wipe out half of all the life in the Universe. This created one of the largest cliff-hangers in cinematic history and audiences were unaware as to how so many famous characters would make their return.
The memorable portal scene in Avengers: Endgame gave fans the moment they were waiting for. The huge return of some of these iconic heroes that previously had been wiped from the universe provoked massive celebrations in cinemas across the world.
