The burden is significant when one dons the royal garb, and this sentiment rings true for the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Undeniably, it stands among the most prosperous franchises globally. The Avengers films generate enormous box office revenue, while some standalone movies also boast similar financial successes. Moreover, the series released by Marvel Studios on Disney+ frequently spark widespread discussions on social media platforms for extended periods. Yet, not even the MCU’s triumphs can shield it from jest and criticism. Such is the nature of contemporary entertainment, where satire and humor coexist with serious content.
It’s quite astonishing to see the number of TV series that have made jabs at the Marvel Cinematic Universe. While some humor is subtly applicable to all superhero films, other instances are clearly aimed at Kevin Feige and his team.
1) Community
As a film enthusiast, I’ve always been thrilled about the fact that the visionary Russo Brothers, who have masterfully directed four blockbuster Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) projects and are currently working on two more, honed their skills on the NBC sitcom “Community”. This connection is beautifully reflected in the franchise, as Danny Pudi, Yvette Nicole Brown, Jim Rash, and Ken Jeong all have significant roles. In a delightful twist of fate, “Community”‘s Season 6 saw Dean Craig Pelton pay tribute to Steve Rogers, Captain America, by impersonating him in an amusing scene where he took out some goons in an elevator using a paintball gun, reminiscent of his actions in “Captain America: The Winter Soldier”.
2) The Boys
In essence, each episode of Amazon’s “The Boys” seems to take jabs at superhero films. Interestingly, the Marvel Cinematic Universe frequently receives less favorable treatment than its rivals due to Vought Studios. This studio produces movies and TV shows featuring their Superheroes, dubbing it the Vought Cinematic Universe. Remarkably, they even organize their projects in “phases,” a strategy initially used by Marvel Studios.
3) The Franchise
Following the triumph of “The Boys,” HBO ventured into superhero satire with “The Franchise.” This series focuses on a team behind a superhero film franchise, offering a more nuanced approach compared to its Amazon counterpart, while still delivering humorous jabs. Notable Marvel Cinematic Universe actors such as Daniel Brühl and Richard E. Grant were cast, and the plotline revolves around transforming a comedic actor into a superhero heartthrob – an experience Chris Pratt can surely relate to.
4) Rick and Morty
You can’t avoid the scorn of “Rick and Morty,” as the Cartoon Network series is known for taking aim at a wide range of targets. On occasion, it pokes fun at the Marvel Cinematic Universe, like when the Smith family attends “Hulk: The Musical.” Additionally, there’s a mock Avengers team in “Rick and Morty” called the Vindicators, who are significantly less effective than Earth’s Mightiest Heroes.
5) Saturday Night Live
As a movie critic, I’ve had the pleasure of witnessing NBC’s iconic sketch series, Saturday Night Live, reach an impressive 50 seasons. In more recent installments, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has become a popular target for humor. When an MCU actor graces the SNL stage, they often embody their comic book persona and poke fun at the predicaments they find themselves in. A prime example of this is when Jeremy Renner breathes life into Hawkeye, standing by as the other Avengers mercilessly rib him for running out of arrows during a crucial battle, leaving him rather under-equipped for such grand fights.
6) Robot Chicken
In simpler terms, the animated series “Robot Chicken” is well-known for making fun of “Star Wars,” but it also frequently references the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). A video titled “Robot Chicken Joins the Marvel Cinematic Universe” on its official YouTube channel showcases various skits centered around Marvel characters. For instance, in one sketch, Iron Man uses his armor to squash some soldiers, and Spider-Man is seen feeling at ease in a public restroom.
7) South Park
Being ridiculed in the animated series South Park is seen as a symbol of achievement. In Season 21, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) becomes the target of Eric Cartman’s schemes as he devises a plan to produce superhero movies and shows for himself and his companions. On the blackboard behind Cartman, potential titles are displayed that resemble those the MCU might consider, such as “Mosquito: Tomorrow Is Yesterday” and “Coon and Friends: Civil War.
https://comicbook.com/tv-shows/news/worst-mcu-characters-introduced-since-avengers-endgame/embed/#
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2025-07-10 23:42