In an interview with "The New York Times," Chris Evans casually revealed that after the currently untitled fourth "Avengers" movie is released in 2019, he will not be returning to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) as the fan-favorite superhero Captain America.

Evans' role in the MCU

Evans famously played Marvel character Johnny Storm, aka the Human Torch, in the early 2000s rendition of Fantastic Four. However, it wasn't until Evans was cast in 2011 as Steve Rogers, aka Captain America, that he was thrust into the shared comic universe. Although the first movie 'Captain America: The First Avenger' did moderately well in theaters and earned generally positive reviews, it was the sequel 'Captain America: The Winter Soldier' that really thrust Evans' portrayal of Rogers into the limelight.

The third solo Captain America film performed even better, earning over a billion dollars and a 91% on Rotten Tomatoes. In 2019, it will mark eight years following Evans' entrance into the MCU. Evans has also appeared in other Avengers movies, and has even made cameos in other MCU films like "Thor: The Dark World." Not including "Infinity War," Evans has appeared in eight Marvel films, with three appearances being cameos.

Why he's leaving

Fans may be wondering why Evans is leaving the MCU after eight years. On this, he comments "You want to get off the train before they push you off." This is best interpreted as he wants to exit the role before fans become tired of him. Robert Downey, Jr, who portrays Tony Stark, aka Iron Man, once said something similar: "I want to hang up my jersey before its embarrassing."

Downey has been part of the MCU since 2008, three years longer than Evans.

However, Downey's contract ends after "Infinity War," scheduled to be released in April, while Evans' contract ends after its sequel. Although Evans has chosen not to renew his contract with Marvel, that's not to say he won't miss the role. He says he'll miss "everything" about playing the role including "the experience, such good movies, [and] such wonderful memories."

He won't disappear

Evans won't fall off the map after turning in his vibranium shield.

He is currently starring in the Broadway show "Lobby Hero" as the villain Bill. He is also set to star in another film later this year called "The Red Sea Diving Resort." Evans also has plans to direct. He debuted as a director in 2014 with his film "Before We Go," and has expressed interest in directing again. He's also pretty active on Twitter calling out President Donald Trump. For now, though, you can still enjoy watching Evans play Steve Rogers when "Avengers: Infinity War" hits theaters April 27.
© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED