Marvel Studios is planning to announce a fifth Thor film at D23, Disney's flagship fan convention, with Chris Hemsworth returning to the title role, according to multiple sources with knowledge of the studio's planning, including two individuals briefed on the presentation schedule and a third who described Hemsworth as enthusiastic about the project.

The selection of D23 as the venue for the announcement is described by people familiar with Marvel's strategy as significant. The studio has historically used the biennial event for major franchise reveals that carry the highest level of audience attention. "D23 is not where you announce something you're uncertain about," one person familiar with the studio's planning process said. "It's where you put your biggest card on the table."

Hemsworth has been preparing physically for a return to the role, according to two sources. His personal trainer, who has worked with him through previous Thor production cycles, posted on social media this week with language that observers of prior production timelines recognised as consistent with pre-production preparation. Two former co-stars tagged Hemsworth in behind-the-scenes content from earlier Thor productions during the same two-week window, activity that entertainment correspondents noted was unusual in its timing.

Focus group testing of story concepts for the project has returned strongly positive results in international markets, according to one person with knowledge of the testing process. That data is understood to have been a significant factor in the studio's decision to proceed with a fifth installment rather than retire the character or develop a successor.

In recent public appearances, Hemsworth has spoken of Thor with continued warmth. "I don't think that character is finished," he said in an interview published last month. "There's more to explore there." He declined to confirm whether he was in discussions with Marvel.

The planned D23 announcement has not been publicly confirmed by Marvel or by Hemsworth's representatives. Changes to presentation plans before major events are common, and the sources cautioned that the announcement was not guaranteed until it was made from the stage. Formal contracts were not understood to have been finalized as of the time of reporting.

A Marvel Studios spokesperson did not respond to requests for comment. A spokesperson for Hemsworth declined to comment.