Every Original Avenger Ranked By MCU Legacy

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In simple terms, the original six characters from The Avengers movie franchise have significantly impacted the Marvel Cinematic Universe. These heroes were first introduced during Phase 1 of Marvel Studios, appearing together in 2012 to form the Avengers team. Led by Nick Fury and SHIELD, they fought to protect New York City from Loki’s attack, and later gained fame as they tackled challenges such as Ultron, HYDRA, Baron Zemo, Thanos, and others.

Although the Avengers have experienced various transformations with new members joining, older ones leaving or perishing, and even temporary disbandments, the initial squad remains the most renowned. Consisting of Tony Stark (Iron Man, portrayed by Robert Downey Jr.), Steve Rogers (Captain America, Chris Evans), Natasha Romanoff (Black Widow, Scarlett Johansson), Clint Barton (Hawkeye, Jeremy Renner), Thor (Chris Hemsworth), and Bruce Banner (Hulk, Mark Ruffalo), the original crew holds a special place. However, it’s worth noting that some of these characters have left a greater impact on the Marvel Cinematic Universe than others. Here they are, ranked based on the true scale of their influence.

6) Bruce Banner’s Hulk

In the world of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Bruce Banner, possessing extraordinary intelligence and immense physical strength as the Hulk, has left an indelible mark. Despite his monumental influence, he remains comparatively less recognized. Mark Ruffalo’s Smart Hulk continues to be a key character in the MCU, set to reappear in 2026’s “Spider-Man: Brand New Day”. However, unlike Jennifer Walters’ She-Hulk who has taken charge, Banner hasn’t mentored anyone and hasn’t had the opportunity to explore his story further in a standalone movie since his debut in 2008’s “The Incredible Hulk”.

5) Clint Barton’s Hawkeye

In 2021, Jeremy Renner starred as the lead character in his inaugural solo production, the Disney+ series “Hawkeye”. This show marked him as a mentor to Kate Bishop, played by Hailee Steinfeld. Given that Bishop is anticipated to be a key member of the prospective Young Avengers team, Clint Barton’s influence in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) might endure for future stories.

Although Barton has been instrumental in numerous compelling MCU narratives, he hasn’t always received adequate screen time or character development. His guidance of Bishop strengthens his legacy compared to Bruce Banner, but there remains a lot of potential left unexplored with the Hawkeye character.

4) Thor

Since joining the Avengers in 2012, Asgard, Thor’s homeworld, has experienced one calamity after another, casting doubt on whether his legacy is truly positive. Despite this, Thor managed to save Asgard from threats like Malekith and the Dark Elves, Hela, and Surtur, even when Asgard itself was destroyed. As an Avenger, Thor has earned a remarkable legacy as one of the strongest heroes who has utilized his abilities for the benefit of others. His role has since been taken up by characters such as Jane Foster’s Mighty Thor (played by Natalie Portman), Love (portrayed by India Hemsworth), Valkyrie (Tessa Thompson), and more.

3) Steve Rogers’ Captain America

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), the title of Captain America can be carried on by different heroes. Initially, Steve Rogers was the one who took up this mantle. Chris Evans’ portrayal of the hero showcased characteristics like selflessness, patriotism, and bravery. Currently, these traits are being wonderfully upheld by Sam Wilson, who plays the role of Captain America in the MCU. Just as Steve Rogers questioned the structures of SHIELD and the U.S. government, Sam Wilson does the same, ensuring a seamless continuation of Rogers’ mission and legacy. In time, Rogers’ Captain America is expected to go down as one of the world’s most esteemed superheroes.

2) Natasha Romanoff’s Black Widow

As a devoted Marvel Universe fan, I can’t help but feel that Scarlett Johansson’s portrayal of Natasha Romanoff, aka Black Widow, left an indelible mark in the MCU that may have even eclipsed Steve Rogers’ impact. This is not just because she was the sole female member of the initial Avengers squad, but rather due to her pivotal role in shaping the universe’s narrative.

Natasha Romanoff, a name now etched in Marvel history, was instrumental in forging new paths within the team. Her family surrogates, Yelena Belova (portrayed by Florence Pugh) and Alexei Shostakov’s Red Guardian (David Harbour), have since joined the New Avengers, while Clint Barton continues to wage battles in her honor.

Romanoff’s achievements are far-reaching: dismantling the Red Room, aiding in the cosmic struggle against Thanos, and ultimately, making the ultimate sacrifice for the universe. These acts have earned her one of the most powerful legacies among any hero in the MCU.

1) Tony Stark’s Iron Man

Initially, Robert Downey Jr.’s character Tony Stark marked the debut of a superhero on-screen within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, setting off a series that now encompasses numerous powerful heroes across 17 years and more than 50 films and TV programs. Throughout this time, Stark has been instrumental in guiding newer heroes, notably Tom Holland’s Spider-Man, while utilizing his vast fortune for charitable endeavors to aid countless individuals. He rescued the world on multiple occasions, all while preserving his quick humor and charm, making him one of the most enthralling characters. Despite his demise in Avengers: Endgame, Stark’s influence continues through Spider-Man, Ironheart (Dominique Thorne), War Machine (Don Cheadle), and others, ensuring that Tony Stark leaves behind a powerful legacy among the original Avengers.

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2025-09-09 02:11