The MCU Has Finally Fixed Its Post-Credits Scene Problem After 4 Years

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The conclusion of Phase 5 and commencement of Phase 6 mark a significant shift for Marvel’s post-movie scenes, often called stingers. Ever since Nick Fury, played by Samuel L. Jackson, emerged from the shadows to discuss an initiative called the Avengers in Iron Man, these after-credits scenes have been a key feature of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). They’ve varied from explicit plot setup to humorous asides, played crucial roles in story arcs spanning over a decade (like Thanos), and even previewed scenes from upcoming movies.

As a devoted cinema enthusiast, I must say that Marvel’s Cinematic Universe (MCU) has been consistently delivering post-credits scenes in a whopping 80+ films, TV shows, short movies, and special presentations. The exception being the epic saga of “Avengers: Endgame.” However, the thrill isn’t slowing down! The latest blockbusters, such as “*Thunderbolts*” and “The Fantastic Four: First Steps,” not only continue the tradition but also address a recent plot twist or two with some clever humor thrown in for good measure. Instead of merely following the pattern, these scenes actually help tie up loose ends, making them even more exciting for us fans!

The MCU Has Recently Struggled With Post-Credits Scenes

The post-credit sequences from Marvel weren’t always top-notch, but they consistently had a clear sense of progression and were well-aligned with Kevin Feige’s overall plans. Except for occasional humor, you could usually expect that most of the credit scenes would be addressed more promptly than delayed (with maybe Doctor Strange’s hint at Mordo chasing sorcerers as the rare exception). However, this pattern has shifted in Phases 4 and 5, as many post-credit scenes seem to remain unfulfilled or unresolved.

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), several post-credit scenes remain unresolved, and it appears that nothing is happening with them as of now. The MCU has adopted a pattern that can be frustrating, where the bonus scenes often rely heavily on cameos, and the Multiverse Saga’s plans are so vague and ambiguous that it’s uncertain when, or if at all, they will be addressed. Some examples of these unresolved post-credit scenes include:

  • Harry Styles’ Starfox in Eternals, along with Pip (Patton Oswalt).
  • Dane Whitman finds the Ebony Blade (also in Eternals), and the voice of Mahershala Ali’s Blade speaking to him off-screen.
  • Charlize Theron appears as Clea in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, whom Strange follows to the Dark Dimension.
  • Hercules (Brett Goldstein) is sent on a revenge mission by Zeus (Russell Crowe) in Thor: Love and Thunder.

In simpler terms, it appears that most of these characters won’t have a significant impact in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) for some time. The exception might be Clea, given her connection to Doctor Strange and the multiverse, which could play a crucial role in “Secret Wars.” However, whether or not Theron reappears as Clea is contrary to her character’s name meaning “clearness” or “purity.”

Characters like Syles and Kit Harington’s Dane Whitman might not return at all, unless he appears in the potential MCU’s Blade movie. As for Hercules, there’s a possibility he could be part of Thor 5, but we can’t be sure if or when that film will be released.

Thunderbolts* & Fantastic Four Are What Post-Credits Scenes Should Be

To give credit where it’s due, Marvel has shown some progressive advancements. The character of Prince T’Challa in “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” seems to be setting up for a resolution in “Black Panther 3”. It’s also been revealed that the introduction of Beast in “The Marvels” will connect to “Avengers: Doomsday”, even though this wasn’t obvious initially. However, it’s in the latest releases where there has been a renewed feeling of momentum and clarity reminiscent of the early days.

The closing credits scene in Thunderbolts hints that Sam Wilson might initiate a lawsuit concerning the New Avengers team name. This is followed by a sneak peek of a cosmic crisis, as the Fantastic Four’s spaceship enters Earth-616. These tantalizing previews suggest an impending conflict within the Avengers in the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday, possibly evoking echoes of another civil war. Furthermore, these events also seem to lay the groundwork for Marvel’s original superhero team, the Fantastic Four, to become integral to the storyline, or perhaps introducing a twist where Doctor Doom himself could be part of the narrative.

In the closing credits of ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’, a cleverly constructed scene continues the narrative, filmed by the Russo Brothers on the set of ‘Avengers: Doomsday’. This scene introduces Doctor Doom into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), creating quite a buzz. But it’s not just his introduction that’s exciting; it seems he has his sights set on Franklin Richards. The reasons behind this are still up for debate, with theories suggesting he needs Franklin’s powers for some multiversal objectives. This post-credits scene is reminiscent of Marvel’s past mastery, providing a clear glimpse into future films and characters, while also sparking lively discussions and speculation among MCU fans – a beloved aspect of being part of this universe.

The reception of Thunderbolts* and Fantastic Four’s critiques has sparked a sense of “Marvel is revitalized.” However, it remains uncertain whether this is truly so. Nonetheless, the intriguing post-credit scenes hint that Marvel may indeed be making a strong comeback.

At this moment, “The Fantastic Four: First Footsteps” is running in cinemas near you. Upcoming Marvel Cinematic Universe releases include “Spider-Man: Fresh Start” on July 31st, 2026. This will be followed by “Avengers: Apocalypse” on December 18th, 2026 and “Avengers: Secret Wars” on December 17th, 2027.

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2025-08-09 17:13