Fans of Marvel have been eagerly anticipating news on two upcoming films: Spider-Man 4 and Shang-Chi 2. Both characters are part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and viewers are excited to see what the future holds for them.
Nevertheless, despite the numerous updates on Spider-Man 4, the future of Shang-Chi 2 is appearing bleak. What’s going on? Could Spider-Man 4 be responsible for the postponement of Shang-Chi 2?
Updates on the release of Shang-Chi 2?
Let’s start with Shang-Chi 2. The first Shang-Chi movie, called Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten RingsShang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, came out in September 2021 and achieved great success. It was greatly loved and had a strong showing at the box office, especially considering it was released during the COVID-19 pandemic. It earned $432 million worldwide, which was very impressive back then.
Marvel confirmed in December of 2021 that they had started developing a sequel. Destin Daniel Cretton, the director of the first movie, was officially announced to be coming back for Shang-Chi 2, where Simu Liu will also be returning as Shang-Chi. All signs pointed towards a positive progression.
Nevertheless, there has been no communication since that time. There is limited information available regarding the production and release dates for Shang-Chi 2. Simu Liu stated in August 2024 that the sequel is still being developed, but there has been a long period of waiting with few updates.
[ Also Read: Swing Into Spider-Man 4: Destin Daniel Cretton to Direct, but Spider-Verse Sequel Delayed ]
Spider-Man 4 Is Stealing the Show
While there is limited information available about Shang-Chi 2, Spider-Man 4 is currently the center of attention. In September 2024, Marvel revealed that Destin Daniel Cretton, the director of Shang-Chi, was set to direct Spider-Man 4. This announcement generated a lot of conversation, especially as it might suggest a additional postponement in the making of Shang-Chi 2.
Marvel regards Spider-Man 4 as a substantial endeavor. Spider-Man is one of the most popular superheroes, not just in the MCU, but also in all of the Marvel universe. Marvel is keen to accelerate the production of Spider-Man 4, with multiple Spider-Man films in the works. With Cretton fully committed to the project, fans are eager to know what lies ahead for Shang-Chi 2.
Shang-Chi 2 Delayed?
There are multiple factors that might lead to a postponement in the premiere of Shang-Chi 2. Due to Cretton being occupied with Spider-Man 4, it is probable that the making of Shang-Chi 2 has been postponed. There are plans to begin shooting Spider-Man 4 in early 2025, with a potential premiere set for late 2026 or early 2027. If Cretton decides to direct Shang-Chi 2 after Spider-Man 4, it is possible that fans may see a release in 2029 or maybe even 2030.
One more potential reason could be Disney’s fresh strategy towards the MCU. At the start of 2024, Disney’s CEO Bob Iger revealed plans for the MCU to reduce its production and focus on major franchises like Spider-Man. This suggests that Marvel is not currently prioritizing smaller properties like Shang-Chi.
[ Also Read: Spider-Man 4: Tom Holland Confirms His Return to the Web-Slinging Role ]
What About the Multiverse?
Another interesting thing to consider is Marvel’s recent changes to its multiverse storyline. Originally, it seemed like Shang-Chi would play a big role in the upcoming Avengers movies, especially after the post-credits scene in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. In that scene, the Ten Rings were sending a mysterious signal, and fans thought it might be connected to Kang the Conqueror, the MCU’s new big bad villain.
But now, things have changed. Jonathan Majors, who plays Kang, has faced some legal issues, and Marvel is reportedly moving away from Kang as the main villain. Instead, Doctor Doom is rumored to take his place in the next Avengers movies. This could explain why Shang-Chi 2 isn’t a priority anymore. Marvel might have reshuffled its plans, focusing on other projects like Spider-Man 4.
Will Shang-Chi 2 Still Happen?
Is there a chance of Shang-Chi 2 being made in the future? The positive update is that it is still being developed. Cretton remains connected to directing, and Simu Liu has verified that the film is in progress. Nevertheless, since Spider-Man 4 is currently occupying Cretton’s schedule, it seems that fans will need to be patient for a while longer for Shang-Chi 2.
Meanwhile, Spider-Man 4 is something to anticipate, offering another thrilling journey for Tom Holland’s portrayal of Peter Parker. Regarding the possibility of Shang-Chi 2, there may be a delay, however, given the positive reception of the initial film, fans will definitely be looking forward to the follow-up whenever it is released.
To summarize, even though Shang-Chi 2 might experience a delay, it is still being remembered. Marvel is very busy currently and it seems like Shang-Chi is still included in their upcoming projects, although the timeline might be delayed. Currently, fans must remain patient and appreciate the numerous other MCU projects on the horizon.
