With Scott Derrickson out as director and Sam Raimi(!) currently in talks to take over where he left off, it looks like Marvel’s scary sequel Doctor Strange: In the Multiverse of Madness is undergoing a substantial makeover from its original incarnation. THR reports tonight that “Loki” showrunner Michael Waldron has been brought in to work on the script.
The previous iteration of the script was written by Jade Bartlett.
At this time it’s unclear what exactly was the source of the creative differences that led Derrickson to leave the project as director, but he’s still on board to executive produce.
Taking to Twitter this week, Derrickson graciously offered his support to Sam Raimi:
I’ve worked with Sam Raimi. One of the nicest people I’ve known in the film business, and as a director, a true living legend. What a great choice to take over Doctor Strange.
— N O S ⋊ Ɔ I ᴚ ᴚ Ǝ ᗡ ⊥ ⊥ O Ɔ S (@scottderrickson) February 6, 2020
Benedict Cumberbatch will return as Doctor Strange, with Benedict Wong, Chiwetel Ejiofor and Elizabeth Olsen also expected to reprise their MCU roles.
The sequel is still currently scheduled for release on May 7, 2021.