As we move into Phase Two of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, this shared superhero world is starting to be fleshed out a bit more now that the principal characters have some experience working together in The Avengers.  While fans are excited to see how Tony Stark, Thor, Steve Rogers, etc. will be interacting in future films, there’s also the possibility of supporting characters from the standalone Marvel pics crossing over.  One of the most likely cases is that of Don Cheadle’s Jim Rhodes from the Iron Man films, as it looks like his alter ego War Machine will be getting a significant amount of screentime in the upcoming sequel.

Steve recently spoke with Cheadle in anticipation of the release of Iron Man 3, and the actor talked briefly about the prospect of him appearing in The Avengers 2 or Captain America: The Winter Soldier, noting that “conversations have been happening” with regards to the Avengers sequel.  Hit the jump to see what he had to say.

As writer/director Joss Whedon is currently busy writing the script for The Avengers 2, Steve asked Cheadle if he has started pitching the filmmaker on ways that Rhodey could be involved with the follow-up:

“No I have not, but I know that [there are] conversations that have been happening, so we’ll see what happens.  If that’s able to happen and it makes sense for the story, I’m sure it’ll happen, and if not it’s fine.  It has to work within the world and sort of the mythology of the whole Marvel universe.”

It’s unclear if Cheadle means to say that conversations are happening regarding him specifically appearing in The Avengers 2, or if he’s just talking generally about putting the roster together for the sequel.  Either way, War Machine would certainly make an interesting addition to the Avengers team.

Additionally, with production currently underway on the Captain America sequel, Steve asked Cheadle if there’s any chance that he’ll be popping up in that film as well:

“I think I’m gonna go to the set, so maybe if I bring the suit in my trunk I’ll just walk on.”

Watch the portion of Steve’s interview with Cheadle regarding The Avengers 2 and Captain America: The Winter Soldier below, followed by a full transcript.  Look for the full interview closer to the release of Iron Man 3.

Question: Have you started pitching Joss Whedon on ways that Rhodey can be involved in the Avengers sequel?

DON CHEADLE: No I have not, but I know that [there are] conversations that have been happening, so we’ll see what happens.  If that’s able to happen and it makes sense for the story, I’m sure it’ll happen, and if not it’s fine.  It has to work within the world and sort of the mythology of the whole Marvel universe.

They’re filming Captain America 2 right now, is there any chance you’re showing up?

CHEADLE: I think I’m gonna go to the set, so maybe if my suit is in the trunk I’ll just walk on.