3 Years Ago, the MCU Introduced Its Most Menacing Villain Since Thanos (& He Should Stay That Way)

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All the villains in the Marvel Cinematic Universe seem to be following a similar path to Thanos. He starts his story relying on others to do his dirty work, which ultimately backfires. But once he gets serious and starts collecting the Infinity Stones, Thanos is unstoppable. He quickly destroys Xandar and defeats the surviving Asgardians. With two stones already in hand, the rest of Avengers: Infinity War shows him completing his mission: eliminating half of all life in the universe. Thanos believes this is actually a kindness, saving those he kills from future pain and suffering.

It’s easy to understand Thanos’s goals, but that doesn’t excuse his brutality. He truly shows his villainous side when his past self sees the future and refuses to accept that the universe won’t simply submit to his plan. That defiance leads to his death, as it should, considering the terrible things he’s done. However, the character taking over as the new villain is heading down a different path, and Marvel needs to be cautious to avoid damaging that character’s potential.

The MCU’s Best Phase Four Villain Gives Thanos a Run for His Money

Following Thanos’ defeat, the world begins to rebuild, but many problems remain. Shows like The Falcon and the Winter Soldier examine the struggles of people returning after being gone for five years, while Hawkeye and WandaVision highlight the emotional toll of lost time. In 2022’s Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, the U.S. government seeks out young scientist Riri Williams to help them find vibranium outside of Wakanda, hoping to strengthen their defenses. This leads to conflict with Talokan, an underwater kingdom that wants to be left in peace, and its people ultimately clash with those on the surface.

Namor, the ruler of Talokan, seeks allies and travels to Wakanda to ask Queen Ramonda and Princess Shuri for their support. When they refuse, he decides to wage war on anyone who isn’t from the ocean. Talokan attacks Wakanda, causing widespread destruction and the tragic death of Queen Ramonda. Namor shows no regret, coldly telling Shuri to prepare for future battles. Given how formidable a villain he is, it seems surprising that the Marvel Cinematic Universe isn’t fully investing in developing Namor as a major antagonist, and is instead choosing a different path.

Namor May Be About to Lose His Bad Guy Status

Okay, so Namor definitely wasn’t at his best in Wakanda Forever. Shuri totally outsmarted him with her tech, and he actually had to back down. It was cool to see him start to understand Wakanda and its people before heading home, though. I’m really excited to see him in Avengers: Doomsday and honestly, it sounds like he’s changed. He’s still not a saint, but it looks like he might end up helping the Avengers more than fighting them. Plus, I heard he’s got a history with Sue Storm in the comics, and I’m already anticipating that dynamic! I think that connection could really influence where his loyalties lie.

Falling for a villain who once brought a major world power to its knees is a dangerous game, especially when a love triangle is involved. Namor’s only chance at redemption might lie in a storyline similar to Secret Wars, where he leads a team of villains and anti-heroes. This would allow him to justify his actions by claiming he’s protecting Earth, even if it means destroying other realities – a familiar trope that could make him both a villain and a reluctant hero.

Avengers: Doomsday hits theaters on December 18, 2026.

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2025-11-15 19:41