Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness is set to explore the concept of alternate realities in full blast, but it is also expected to dive deeper into the MCU as it currently stands. Directed by Sam Raimi, the upcoming MCU sequel will showcase the return of Benedict Cumberbatch's Doctor Strange alongside fellow franchise mainstays like Benedict Wong's Wong and Rachel McAdams' Christine Palmer.
Information about the sequel has been shrouded in secrecy ever since its announcement during San Diego Comic-Con 2019, but cast interviews, leaked merchandise, and its first trailer gave a preview of what to expect in the magical sequel. Aside from Strange's usual allies, other MCU characters like Elizabeth Olsen's Wanda Maximoff and newcomer Xochitl Gomez's America Chavez were confirmed to appear.
Given that Multiverse of Madness seems poised to have massive ramifications, fans have wondered if other MCU heroes or villains will also show up. One hero at the center of discussions online is Simu Liu's Shang-Chi, largely because of the character's connection to Wong.
Now, as the calendar year turns to 2022, the Legend of the Ten Rings lead star has addressed this rumor mentioned above.
Simu Liu Reacts to Doctor Strange 2 Rumors
Shang-Chi actor Simu Liu sat down as a guest on GQ's Actually Me segment on YouTube to respond to different questions online.
One of the questions that Liu unearthed from Quora was his rumored appearance in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.
Liu responded by boldly saying that he's not in the MCU sequel. The Marvel actor added that he wouldn't say it out loud "even if [he was] in that movie:"
“Even if I were in that movie, which I’m not, there is no way in hell that I would ever say it out loud. That’s all I can really say, right? Nah, I’m kidding.”
Will Shang-Chi Show Up in Doctor Strange 2?
Liu's latest comment is a perfect example of avoiding Marvel snipers.
Many feel that a potential Shang-Chi sighting would make sense, especially after the established connection between him and Wong during Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. Despite that, it's possible that the titular martial artist may sit this adventure out since the Marvel hero has no real connection to its main story.
Still, it's possible that Wong would seek out reinforcements at some point in the film, and Shang-Chi could be one of his choices. If this happens, Multiverse of Madness would become Liu's second MCU appearance after his solo film debut.
Wong had a brief yet meaningful stint during Shang-Chi, and the same could be true for Liu's Marvel hero this time around. There's a chance that Shang-Chi could be summoned to use the Ten Rings for a specific mission in the film or a more plausible route would be featuring a Shang-Chi Variant that Strange and his allies would encounter somewhere in the Multiverse.
In addition, it's worth pointing out that Ta Lo is based somewhere in the vast Multiverse. The dimension's significant connection to the Multiverse could be used as a tool to bring back Shang-Chi. It's possible that America Chavez could accidentally open a portal to Ta Lo, and it could show Shang-Chi in training with the rest of its people.
Another possibility is showcasing Shang-Chi in the film's post-credits scene to potentially launch his already-confirmed sequel.
Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings is now streaming on Disney+ while Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness is set to premiere in theaters on May 6, 2022.
