Doctor Strange 2: Benedict Cumberbatch Talks Extensive Reshoots, MCU Future

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness star Benedict Cumberbatch has revealed how he remained focused as an actor during extensive reshoots on the Marvel Cinematic Universe sequel.

“I was unaware of the articles,” Cumberbatch said to The Playlist’s Bingeworthy TV podcast in response to reports of production issues on Multiverse of Madness. “You’re part of a big machine, but you’re just trying to solve the problems on a set like any other job. And, yeah, it’s a massive sand pit to play in with very big and expensive, breakable toys. But you can only really do that if you’re loose and free and just doing your work as an actor. So, I kind of knuckled down and did that.”

The Doctor Strange sequel underwent significant changes right from the start. The original movie’s director Scott Derrickson left the project over creative differences and was replaced by Spider-Man‘s Sam Raimi. Additionally, production was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and Marvel Studios demanded several script rewrites by screenwriter Michael Waldron. Despite the production issues and eventually mixed reviews upon release, Multiverse of Madness went on to gross $955 million worldwide in 2022.

When will Doctor Strange return?

Cumberbatch’s Strange was last seen during the Multiverse of Madness’ mid-credits scene where he encounters Clea (Charlize Theron), who enlists his help to stop an incursion in the Dark Dimension. In July 2023, Cumberbatch stated that he had “some Marvel capers in the making next year” when he spoke at the JW3 Speaker Series. When asked about a release date for Doctor Strange 3 as well as possibly appearing in Avengers 5, Cumberbatch is just as much in the dark as MCU fans.

“We will see. We will find out,” Cumberbatch said. “I’m not sure where he’s been and what he’s been up to and who with, but yeah, I know as little as you.”

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness is now streaming on Disney+.