The Marvel Cinematic Universe has expanded into realms previously unimaginable, and at the forefront of this multiversal exploration is Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. Six years after his MCU debut, Doctor Stephen Strange’s journey takes a dramatically wild turn in this sequel, plunging him deeper into the chaotic and mesmerizing multiverse. Following the reality-altering events of Spider-Man: No Way Home, where Strange’s spell fractured the fabric of reality, this film throws open the doors to infinite possibilities – and a host of intriguing characters.
In Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, the Sorcerer Supreme seeks allies, including Wanda Maximoff, to confront a looming threat that spans dimensions. However, as the layers of the multiverse peel back, alliances shift, and the true nature of friend and foe becomes blurred. This cinematic adventure promises not only to showcase alternate realities and versions of Doctor Strange himself but also to deliver a captivating ensemble cast that enriches the narrative tapestry. For audiences eager to navigate this complex multiverse, understanding the characters and the actors who bring them to life is key. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the cast of Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, detailing their roles and prior MCU appearances.
Benedict Cumberbatch As Doctor Stephen Strange
Benedict Cumberbatch reprises his iconic role as Doctor Stephen Strange, the brilliant but initially arrogant neurosurgeon turned Master of the Mystic Arts. Introduced in 2016’s Doctor Strange, Stephen Strange underwent a transformative journey after a car accident curtailed his surgical career. Seeking healing, he discovered Kamar-Taj and embraced the mystical arts, eventually becoming a powerful sorcerer and playing a pivotal role in defending Earth against cosmic threats, including Dormammu and Thanos. Despite his crucial contributions to the Avengers saga, including the battles in Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame, and his spell-casting in Spider-Man: No Way Home, Strange now faces unprecedented challenges in the multiverse. Cumberbatch’s portrayal of Strange is nuanced, capturing both the character’s intellectual prowess and his evolving emotional landscape. Beyond the MCU, Cumberbatch is celebrated for his diverse roles in critically acclaimed films like The Imitation Game, The Power of the Dog, Star Trek Into Darkness, and his memorable performance as Sherlock Holmes in the BBC series Sherlock. His return as Doctor Strange is central to navigating the madness of the multiverse.
Elizabeth Olsen As Wanda Maximoff/Scarlet Witch
Elizabeth Olsen returns as Wanda Maximoff, also known as the Scarlet Witch, a character whose journey in the MCU has been marked by immense power and profound tragedy. Wanda’s powers, initially derived from the Mind Stone, have evolved to make her one of the most formidable beings in the universe. From her introduction in Avengers: Age of Ultron to her crucial role in the battles against Thanos, Wanda has demonstrated her capacity for both creation and destruction. WandaVision on Disney+ explored the depths of her grief following the loss of Vision, leading her to create the idyllic but artificial reality of Westview. In Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, Wanda’s quest takes a darker turn as she becomes entangled with the multiverse’s destabilizing forces. Olsen’s compelling performance captures Wanda’s vulnerability and immense power, making her a central and complex figure in the unfolding multiversal narrative. Olsen is also known for her roles in films like Wind River, Godzilla, and the series Sorry for Your Loss, showcasing her range and depth as an actress.
Xochitl Gomez As America Chavez
Introducing a fresh face to the MCU, Xochitl Gomez portrays America Chavez, a character with the extraordinary ability to travel between dimensions by literally punching holes through reality. America’s powers, while incredibly potent, are also unstable and difficult for her to control, making her a figure of both immense potential and vulnerability. Originating from a different universe, her arrival in the MCU’s primary reality is a catalyst for multiversal events. In Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, America seeks the help of Doctor Strange and Wong to navigate the dangers of the multiverse and master her powers. Gomez’s portrayal of America Chavez brings youthful energy and resilience to the MCU, adding a dynamic new layer to the ensemble. Prior to her MCU debut, Gomez was known for her role in Netflix’s The Baby-Sitter’s Club, establishing her as a rising young talent.
Chiwetel Ejiofor As Karl Mordo
Chiwetel Ejiofor returns as Karl Mordo, but this time as a variant from another universe, adding a layer of complexity to his established character. In the original Doctor Strange, Mordo began as Stephen Strange’s mentor and ally but, disillusioned with the Ancient One’s methods and Strange’s rule-bending, became an antagonist by the film’s end. The Mordo encountered in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness is a different iteration, a Sorcerer Supreme in his own right and a member of the secretive Illuminati. This variant Mordo presents a formidable challenge and a distorted reflection of the Strange he once knew. Ejiofor’s nuanced performance captures Mordo’s rigid adherence to magical law and his adversarial stance against those he deems threats to the established order. Ejiofor is celebrated for his powerful performances in films such as 12 Years a Slave, The Martian, and The Old Guard, bringing gravitas and depth to every role he undertakes.
Benedict Wong As Wong
Benedict Wong reprises his role as Wong, now the Sorcerer Supreme, a title he assumed during Doctor Strange’s absence after the Blip. Wong has evolved from a librarian at Kamar-Taj to a steadfast ally of Doctor Strange and a key protector of Earth against mystical threats. Known for his pragmatism, knowledge of the mystic arts, and dry wit, Wong provides a grounded counterpoint to Strange’s more impulsive nature. In Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, Wong stands alongside Strange in confronting multiversal dangers, offering both magical prowess and level-headed counsel. Wong’s character has become increasingly central to the MCU’s mystical side, appearing in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings and Spider-Man: No Way Home. Benedict Wong’s charismatic portrayal has made Wong a fan-favorite character. Beyond the MCU, Wong is known for his roles in films like The Martian, Prometheus, and Annihilation.
Doctor Strange 2 Supporting Cast & Characters
Rachel McAdams as Christine Palmer: Rachel McAdams returns as Dr. Christine Palmer, an emergency surgeon and Stephen Strange’s former romantic partner. Last seen in Doctor Strange, Christine’s relationship with Stephen was complicated by his dedication to his sorcerer duties. In Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, Christine reappears, potentially in different variants across the multiverse, exploring what could have been in her relationship with Stephen had his life taken a different path. McAdams, known for her roles in Mean Girls, The Notebook, and Spotlight, brings both warmth and intelligence to Christine Palmer, a vital human connection in Strange’s extraordinary world.
Michael Stuhlbarg as Dr. Nicodemus West: Michael Stuhlbarg reprises his role as Dr. Nicodemus West, a former colleague and rival of Stephen Strange from their surgical days. Dr. West makes an appearance at Christine Palmer’s wedding, highlighting the connections to Strange’s past life before magic. Stuhlbarg, acclaimed for his performances in Call Me By Your Name, The Shape of Water, and Arrival, adds depth to the character of Dr. West, representing Strange’s abandoned medical career.
Julian Hilliard and Jett Klyne as Billy and Tommy Maximoff: Julian Hilliard and Jett Klyne return as Billy and Tommy Maximoff, Wanda’s sons first introduced in WandaVision. These characters are variants from another universe, reflecting Wanda’s longing for family and the fabricated children she created in Westview. Hilliard, known for The Haunting of Hill House, and Klyne, from Skyscraper, bring youthful authenticity to these complex, multiversal children.
Sheila Atim as Sara: Sheila Atim joins the cast as Sara, a sorcerer’s apprentice who aids Doctor Strange and Wong in their multiversal battles. Sara is a new character within the MCU, expanding the ranks of sorcerers protecting reality. Atim, recognized for her work in The Underground Railroad and Bruised, adds to the film’s mystical ensemble.
Adam Hugill as Rintrah: Adam Hugill portrays Rintrah, a Minotaur and ally to Doctor Strange and Wong. Rintrah, hailing from another dimension, brings a unique, visually striking presence to the sorcerer’s circle. Hugill, known for 1917 and Sherwood, embodies this otherworldly ally.
The Illuminati Members: Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness introduces the Illuminati, a powerful group from another universe, featuring several iconic characters portrayed by returning and new actors:
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Lashana Lynch as Captain Marvel (Maria Rambeau variant): Lashana Lynch reprises her role as Maria Rambeau from Captain Marvel, but in this universe, she is Captain Marvel. Lynch, also known for No Time to Die, brings a powerful, alternate version of Captain Marvel to the MCU.
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Hayley Atwell as Captain Carter: Hayley Atwell voices and potentially appears as Captain Carter, Peggy Carter’s super-soldier variant first seen in What If…?. Atwell, beloved as Peggy Carter from Agent Carter and Captain America: The First Avenger, brings this animated character to live-action within the multiverse.
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Anson Mount as Black Bolt: Anson Mount returns as Black Bolt, the Inhuman king with a devastating voice, a role he previously played in the Inhumans TV series. Mount, also known for Star Trek: Discovery, brings this powerful, if previously lesser-known, Marvel character into a major cinematic feature.
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John Krasinski as Reed Richards/Mr. Fantastic: John Krasinski debuts as Reed Richards, also known as Mr. Fantastic, leader of the Fantastic Four and a highly anticipated character for MCU fans. Krasinski, famed for The Office and A Quiet Place, embodies this iconic Marvel leader, fulfilling long-held fan casting desires.
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Patrick Stewart as Professor Charles Xavier/Professor X: Patrick Stewart makes a monumental return as Professor Charles Xavier, or Professor X, from the X-Men film franchise, marking the official integration of the X-Men into the MCU multiverse. Stewart, legendary for his role in the X-Men movies and Star Trek: The Next Generation, brings his iconic portrayal to a new universe, bridging decades of Marvel cinematic history.
Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness assembles a phenomenal cast, blending familiar MCU faces with exciting new characters and variants. This ensemble cast is crucial to navigating the film’s complex multiversal narrative, promising a thrilling and mind-bending cinematic experience for audiences.
