Marvel Has A Major Disney+ Problem With the MCU

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Stepping into the realm of Marvel fandom here, let me share my thoughts on an intriguing development: Sacha Baron Cohen’s Mephisto graces the live-action stage for the first time in the grand Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) as Ironheart wraps up her story. This marks yet another instance of a major MCU character making their debut through a Disney+ TV series, which has become quite commonplace in the 2020s. However, it’s worth noting that these introductions, though frequent, haven’t had the same lasting impact or creative brilliance as the way early MCU characters were subtly hinted at on the big screen during the 2010s. The unfortunate truth is, most of these characters teased in new Disney+ shows have yet to reappear.

Mephisto is among the mightiest antagonists within the Marvel Comics universe’s rich lore. Yet, his debut in live-action Marvel productions feels like a significant missed opportunity rather than an exciting precursor to more thrilling adventures. This is indicative of a challenge the MCU faces with its ventures into streaming, where anticipation often falls flat.

The Faulty Track Record of MCU Characters Debuting on Disney+

In the final episode of Loki’s first season, it was unveiled that He Who Remains, portrayed by Jonathan Majors, was the guardian of the entire Marvel Cinematic Universe timeline (and its assorted alternate realities). This version of Kang the Conqueror came as a shock to devoted MCU fans who believed that Kang would make his debut in Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania. However, before the production of this big-screen MCU installment even started, this Kang variant made his first appearance on television instead of in a movie theater. This suggested to viewers that the future of the MCU lies in streaming platforms and that they should keep an eye on all content produced for this medium.

Ever since the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) started expanding on Disney+, they’ve been introducing key characters said to play significant roles in the franchise’s upcoming stories. Shows like “Secret Invasion” were brimming with these characters, such as Chris Stearns, the intriguing news host played by Christopher McDonald, who was rumored to be a major player in the MCU’s future. The final episode of “She-Hulk: Attorney at Law” even introduced Skaar, the son of the Hulk, in an awkwardly executed scene that seemed like it was meant to poke fun at the MCU’s tendency to hint at new characters. On the other hand, “Hawkeye” revealed a surprising detail about its protagonist – Clint Barton was actually married to Mockingbird.

Currently, Mephisto has made an appearance in Ironheart, much like Kang’s debut in Loki. Similar to other significant characters (with the exception of He Who Remains) introduced in Marvel’s streaming series, there are no clear indications of where Mephisto will show up next. His role in Ironheart is primarily to hint at upcoming Marvel productions, but it remains unclear when he will reappear.

In contrast, when The Collector appeared during the mid-credit scene of Thor: The Dark World, it was to promote a movie that was set for release just nine months later. In contrast, Mephisto and other characters like him from the Marvel Disney+ series are setting up projects that might not materialize at all.

A Trail of Unrealized Potential Within The MCU’s Streaming History

Let’s consider The Collector in terms of Skaar, who made his first appearance in She-Hulk three years ago but hasn’t reappeared since. His unexpected entrance into the She-Hulk finale feels peculiar now. Meanwhile, all the appearances of He Who Remains in Loki seem out of place, given that Kang the Conqueror’s plans have been scrapped. The storylines of Secret Invasion and its associated projects (including a law banning aliens on Earth), which were supposed to launch new MCU projects, are currently gathering dust somewhere.

Currently, it seems unlikely that Mephisto will make an appearance in the MCU anytime soon, as he doesn’t seem to align with the immediate plans of Marvel Studios and Marvel Television. These projects are either reminiscent of classic superhero movies or more affordable, small-screen productions. It’s quite peculiar to see so many new MCU characters being introduced, only for us not to witness their future stories unfold. While it’s acceptable for MCU TV shows to introduce new characters, they must be able to function as standalone entertainment. For example, “Werewolf By Night” was a delightful success and thrived within its own parameters.

Revisiting Man-Thing could be exciting, yet his return isn’t essential to make his initial appearance engaging or meaningful, unlike characters such as Mephisto or Skaar. While every moment they appear on screen hints at future MCU projects that may never materialize, Man-Thing’s introduction was more grounded and self-contained. The overabundance of character premieres in this medium was once a reflection of Marvel Studios’ faith in the MCU’s streaming-centric future. However, as they adjust their course, we see the consequences of persisting with this strategy for so long: an abundance of untapped potential and awkward sequel setups.

All episodes of Ironheart are now streaming.

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2025-07-08 21:16