Marvel fans have spent weeks speculating about Doctor Doom‘s mysterious witches. Now, directors Joe and Anthony Russo have offered the clearest explanation yet, while stopping well short of revealing their full role in Avengers: Doomsday.

Russo brothers on Avengers: Doomsday’s viral Doctor Doom witches

The Russo brothers have finally addressed one of Avengers: Doomsday’s biggest mysteries after fans fixated on Doctor Doom’s witches following recent promotional material. During a recent interview with ExtraTV, Anthony Russo acknowledged the growing curiosity but kept the details deliberately vague, suggesting the characters will play an important part in Victor von Doom’s story without revealing exactly who they are.

Anthony Russo described the witches as an “elemental part” of everything the iconic Marvel villain represents. While he avoided discussing their identities or powers, his comments hint that the mysterious Doom Witches might play a pivotal role in the coming movies, rather than serving as background characters.

The conversation also turned to Avengers: Endgame, which is returning to theaters in September. Joe Russo encouraged fans to revisit the blockbuster for two reasons. First, he said audiences can relive the unique “experience of watching the film with a live audience” reacting to their “favorite moments”. He also teased a stronger incentive, revealing that the theatrical release includes “new footage” that “illustrates” a direct connection between Endgame and Avengers: Doomsday.

Marvel has already confirmed an expansive ensemble for Avengers: Doomsday, including Chris Hemsworth, Anthony Mackie, Vanessa Kirby, Paul Rudd, Florence Pugh, Pedro Pascal, Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen and Tom Hiddleston. Robert Downey Jr. also returns to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but this time as Victor von Doom instead of Iron Man.

Behind the scenes, Joe and Anthony Russo said they have tightened security throughout production, relying heavily on soundstages and carefully selected filming locations to prevent unauthorized photos and story leaks (via Deadline).

Avengers: Doomsday will arrive in theaters on December 18.