Which Phase One Characters Are Poised for a Comeback in the MCU?

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It seems that some of the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s future is rooted in its early beginnings. Several key MCU films and series, set to debut soon, will feature characters from their earliest projects during Phase One. For instance, Tim Blake Nelson’s Samuel Sterns/The Leader, last seen in The Incredible Hulk, is returning to stir up trouble in global politics for Captain America: Brave New World. Furthermore, Faran Tahir’s villain Raza from the 2008 film Iron Man (the first Marvel Cinematic Universe production) will make an appearance in Vision Quest.

These unexpected returns suggest that no character in this series is completely unique; they can reappear if a plot demands it or offers an opportunity for fan service. With these trends, it’s intriguing to consider which Phase One characters might resurface in the current Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Which early MCU heroes could play a role in this universe that now encompasses multiple realities?

Justin Hammer

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It’s quite surprising that Justin Hammer, who caused trouble for Tony Stark in Iron Man 2, hasn’t reappeared in the Marvel Studios films since then. Even the Marvel Studios executives seem to understand the potential for this character to continue causing chaos within this universe, as he has popped up in other projects such as the One-Shot short film All Hail the King and an episode of What If…?. However, these appearances are not the same as bringing Hammer back in a live-action MCU movie or TV series. Now that Robert Downey Jr. is returning to the franchise (in a new role), it’s high time for Justin Hammer to make his well-deserved comeback in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Doc Samson

In a previous Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) film titled “The Incredible Hulk” from 2008, Ty Burrell’s character, Leonard Samson or Doc Samson, made an appearance as Betty Ross’ new love interest following Bruce Banner’s exile. Since then, other characters from the Incredible Hulk series have resurfaced in the MCU, including Liv Tyler’s Betty Ross in “Brave New World.” However, despite Leonard Samson acquiring superpowers and a vigilante persona in the comics, the MCU’s version of this character has yet to reappear. Given Burrell’s growing popularity due to his role in “Modern Family,” it might be an opportune moment for Leonard Samson to make a return in the MCU.

Ivan Vanko/Whiplash

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As a die-hard movie enthusiast, I can’t help but feel excited about the upcoming appearance of Tahir Raj Bhasin as Raza and James Spader reprising his role as Ultron in “Vision Quest.” It seems clear that this standalone story for Paul Bettany’s Vision will involve him facing off against some formidable foes from Tony Stark’s past. Given the history, it’s reasonable to assume that Ivan Vanko, the antagonist from “Iron Man 2,” might be one of those adversaries.

Though Ivan Vanko’s demise in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) might not seem like a significant hurdle for his return, the actor who played him, Mickey Rourke, has made it clear that he’s not fond of the MCU. However, if Aaron Taylor-Johnson could reprise his role as Pietro Maximoff for his “WandaVision” cameo, then perhaps there’s a chance for Mickey Rourke to don a new persona for a “Vision Quest” appearance.

Chess Roberts

There’s a good chance you might not recall Olivia Munn’s character Chess Roberts from Iron Man 2, but there was quite a story behind her brief appearance. Originally, Munn was planned for a different role in the movie, but that character was eliminated during reshoots. As a result, she ended up playing a new character at the last moment. Given all the turmoil surrounding her introduction to this universe, it seems fitting to bring Munn back to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and give Chess Roberts a more significant role. After all the effort that went into integrating her into this franchise, it feels like a waste to limit her to just one appearance. Furthermore, it would be quite straightforward to incorporate a reporter/commentator into various MCU projects, considering the superhero chaos that’s always happening.

Timothy “Dum Dum” Dugan

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With the addition of entities such as the Time Variance Authority and the multiverse in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), it’s hard to imagine why any two MCU characters wouldn’t have a chance to meet or interact. Not even time and space can restrict encounters, as seen by Tony Stark’s relationship with his father in “Avengers: Endgame.” Consequently, it’s high time fans are reunited with Timothy “Dum-Dum” Dugan from “Captain America: The First Avenger,” played by Neal McDonough. Although he has made appearances in Marvel short films and TV series, his absence from theatrical cinema is unfortunate given his importance to characters like Captain America and Nick Fury in the comics. To rectify this situation, the MCU could employ multidimensional time travel or advanced robotics as reasons for bringing back Timothy “Dum-Dum” Dugan for more action.

You can currently stream Captain America: The First Avenger, along with the other Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) films from Phase One, on Disney+.

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2025-01-27 20:40