In a reassuring update that has thrilled Marvel Cinematic Universe enthusiasts, Simu Liu confirmed in early January 2026 that the highly anticipated sequel to Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings remains firmly in development at Marvel Studios. Speaking exclusively to PEOPLE at New York Comic Con, the actor addressed longstanding fan concerns about the project’s status amid Marvel’s shifting priorities and production delays.
“There’s not a whole lot to tease right now, other than I think, I sound like a broken record at this point, but it is happening,” Liu stated emphatically. His comments come at a pivotal moment for the MCU, as the Multiverse Saga hurtles toward its conclusion with Avengers: Doomsday (December 18, 2026) and Avengers: Secret Wars (December 17, 2027). Liu also revealed that his character, Xu Shang-Chi, will feature prominently in both epic crossovers, marking the hero’s long-awaited live-action return since his 2021 solo debut.
The original Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, was a standout success for Marvel during the post-pandemic era. Released in September 2021, the film grossed over $432 million worldwide despite theatrical challenges, earning widespread acclaim for its groundbreaking Asian representation, exhilarating martial arts choreography, and fresh take on MCU mythology. Critics praised Liu’s charismatic performance as the Master of the Ten Rings, alongside a stellar ensemble including Awkwafina as Katy, Meng’er Zhang as Xu Xialing, Michelle Yeoh as Jiang Nan, and Tony Leung Chiu-wai as the complex villain Wenwu.
The film’s post-credits scenes teased major integrations: Shang-Chi’s mysterious rings signaling across the multiverse, drawing attention from Wong (Benedict Wong), Captain Marvel (Brie Larson), and Bruce Banner (Mark Ruffalo). This setup positioned Shang-Chi as a key player in larger MCU events, fueling immediate demands for a sequel.
Marvel wasted no time announcing Shang-Chi 2 in December 2021, with Cretton signed to return as writer and director under an overall deal. Early optimism suggested a relatively swift followup, but the project has faced multiple setbacks reflective of broader MCU turbulence. Industry strikes in 2023-2024, the pivot away from Kang the Conqueror following Jonathan Majors’ controversies, and Marvel’s strategic slowdown to prioritize quality over quantity all contributed to delays.
Cretton’s commitments further complicated the timeline. Initially attached to direct Avengers: The Kang Dynasty (later restructured into Doomsday), he stepped down in 2023 to focus on Shang-Chi 2 and the Disney+ series Wonder Man. However, in 2024, Cretton shifted priorities again to helm Spider-Man: Brand New Day (July 31, 2026), starring Tom Holland. Reports indicated that while Shang-Chi 2 remained officially in development, it took a backseat, sparking fan speculation about potential shelving.
Liu has been a consistent voice of optimism throughout. In interviews spanning 2023 to 2025, he repeatedly assured fans that the sequel was “definitely happening,” even as concrete details remained scarce. His January 2026 confirmation aligns with insider reports suggesting Cretton has substantial groundwork already completed on the script, allowing production to ramp up post-Spider-Man.
Speculation places Shang-Chi 2 as a potential 2027 release, possibly filling one of Marvel’s untitled slots (such as July 23 or another post-Secret Wars date). This would position it as a bridge into Phase 7, exploring the post-Multiverse Saga landscape. Liu’s involvement in both Doomsday and Secret Wars—which he described as an “incredible time” filled with new friendships, including with Channing Tatum—ensures Shang-Chi plays a role in the saga’s climax before his solo return.
Fans have theorized wildly about the sequel’s plot. The Ten Rings’ origins remain a tantalizing mystery—potentially tying into cosmic entities or ancient threats. Xialing’s ascension to lead the Ten Rings organization opens avenues for sibling dynamics and moral conflicts. Returns of Awkwafina, Zhang, Wong, and Yeoh seem likely, with rumors of new additions to expand Shang-Chi’s world.
Liu’s update also highlights his growing stature in the MCU. Beyond voicing variants in animated projects like What If…? and Marvel Zombies, his live-action comeback in Doomsday reunites him with veterans like Chris Hemsworth, Anthony Mackie, and Patrick Stewart, while introducing crossovers with the Fantastic Four and X-Men.
Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige has emphasized rebuilding fan trust through deliberate pacing and high-stakes storytelling. Shang-Chi 2 fits this vision: a character-driven spectacle blending cultural depth with blockbuster action. Liu’s enthusiasm mirrors this—”it’s going to be amazing,” he promised.
As Marvel navigates its most ambitious era yet, with Robert Downey Jr.’s shocking return as Doctor Doom anchoring Doomsday, Liu’s confirmation serves as a beacon for underrepresented heroes. Shang-Chi’s journey from reluctant fighter to multiversal powerhouse continues, proving that even in a crowded MCU, there’s room for the Master of Kung Fu to shine.
While no official release date or casting announcements have emerged, Liu’s words have reignited excitement. In an industry prone to pivots, his steadfast reassurance—that Shang-Chi 2 is indeed happening—offers hope amid uncertainty. Fans can next see Liu wielding the Ten Rings in Avengers: Doomsday, but the promise of a dedicated sequel ensures Shang-Chi’s legend will endure.
