The Marvel Cinematic Universe hasn’t been the same since Ryan Reynolds’ Wade Wilson officially crossed over into it. After two wildly successful solo outings at Fox, Deadpool’s long-awaited MCU debut didn’t just meet expectations—it shattered them. Deadpool & Wolverine has officially become the highest-grossing R-rated movie of all time, redefining what’s possible for mature superhero storytelling on a global scale.
With a staggering $1.3 billion worldwide box office haul, the film surpassed Joker’s $1.08 billion record and cemented Deadpool as not only a fan favorite, but a financial juggernaut. Naturally, speculation has turned to one pressing question: What’s next for Marvel’s most unconventional hero?
A Fourth Chapter Takes Shape
While Marvel Studios has yet to make an official announcement and Reynolds was notably absent from the confirmed cast of Avengers: Doomsday. With that being said, all signs point toward Deadpool’s story continuing. According to a new report from Puck, Reynolds is “wisely focused” on developing the next Deadpool film, strongly suggesting that Deadpool 4 is quietly moving forward behind the scenes.
Though no story details have been revealed, the report emphasizes that the project would allow Reynolds to once again return to the role audiences love him most for. A character whose meta-humor, emotional depth, and R-rated edge have proven uniquely powerful within the MCU.
The Case For Keeping Deadpool R-Rated
The success of Deadpool & Wolverine did more than break records. In fact, it validated Marvel Studios’ ability to explore R-rated and TV-MA storytelling without compromising brand strength. The film reportedly generated hundreds of millions in profit, reinforcing Deadpool’s value not just as a character, but as a gateway to a broader tonal range for the MCU.
That freedom may be central to Deadpool’s future. In a November 15th, 2024 interview with ExtraTV, Reynolds admitted he “would love” to make another Deadpool movie, though he also acknowledged the need for balance after the all-consuming nature of the last film. With Deadpool & Wolverine releasing in July 2024, the actor has since emphasized prioritizing time with his children before diving back into another massive production.
A Different Kind Of Deadpool Movie?
Adding intrigue, Reynolds revealed to The Hollywood Reporter in December 2024 that his ideas for Deadpool’s next MCU appearance are unconventional. “None of them center on Deadpool,” he shared, hinting that the character may shift into a supporting role rather than headline another traditional solo outing.
Still, one constant appears non-negotiable: Wolverine. Reynolds has repeatedly stated that he would “always want Deadpool and Wolverine to be paired in some way,” making Hugh Jackman’s return feel less like a question of if and more a matter of when.
A Strategic Absence Or A Calculated Return?
Neither Deadpool nor Wolverine has been confirmed for Avengers: Doomsday, despite the film’s inclusion of multiple returning stars from Fox’s X-Men universe. Given the overwhelming success of Deadpool & Wolverine, their absence feels less like an oversight and more like a deliberate move. Possibly saving their next MCU appearance for the event-level impact of Deadpool 4.
For now, Marvel remains silent. But with Reynolds actively engaged, box office history rewritten, and fan demand louder than ever, it’s clear Deadpool’s story in the MCU is far from over. If Deadpool 4 does move forward, all that we know is that the Merc with a Mouth still has plenty left to say. And Marvel would be wise to keep listening.
