Doctor Strange 3 Eyes James Bond Director for High-Stakes Multiverse Sequel

Doctor Strange might finally be dusting off the Cloak again. After Multiverse of Madness left his path a little murky in 2022, there is new chatter that Doctor Strange 3 is quietly moving forward — and Benedict Cumberbatch is not just waiting for a script to land on his desk this time.

Where this is coming from

Nexus Point News claims the threequel is in early development. None of this is official, so treat it like what it is: rumors with a little smoke but no Marvel press release.

A tweet on Nov 14, 2025 from MCU Film News amped things up with this claim:

'Benedict Cumberbatch is said to be stepping up his involvement in Doctor Strange 3. He is actively searching for a fresh writer and director for the film. Sam Mendes is among the talents on his radar.'

So what does that actually mean?

If accurate, it sounds like Cumberbatch is taking a hands-on role in shaping the movie — not just starring, but helping find the writer and director. That is a noticeable shift from the first two films, where he was (very effectively) just the guy in the cape. Given how Multiverse of Madness leaned into horror in a way that divided MCU fans, you can see why he might want to help steer the tone this time.

The Sam Mendes of it all

One of the names floated is Sam Mendes, the Oscar winner behind Skyfall and Spectre. On paper, great choice. In reality, the timing is rough. Mendes announced four Beatles movies — one for each member — that he is making at the same time. That sounds like a calendar eater. Could he squeeze in another giant franchise film? Maybe, but do not bet your sling ring on it.

What the rumor mill is saying right now

• Doctor Strange 3 is reportedly in early development at Marvel, per Nexus Point News.
• Benedict Cumberbatch is said to be actively involved in finding the film's writer and director.
• Sam Mendes is allegedly on the list of potential directors, but he is currently busy with four Beatles films shooting simultaneously.
• The threequel is rumored to land after Avengers: Secret Wars, which would make 2027 the earliest realistic window.

Temper the expectations

Until Marvel Studios plants a logo on a stage and dates it, this is all just well-sourced whispering. Still, the idea of Cumberbatch taking a bigger role behind the scenes is interesting — especially if the goal is to lock in a clearer identity for Strange going forward.

If you want a refresher while we wait for something official, Doctor Strange and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness are streaming on Disney+ in the U.S.