One of the MCU’s Best Ever Villains Just Made a Surprising Return After 3 Years

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Three years following their last appearance, a prominent Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) antagonist has resurfaced – this time through an exclusive Disney+ television series. Since making his first appearance in the post-credits scene of “The Fantastic Four: First Steps,” all indications point towards Robert Downey Jr’s Doctor Doom becoming the next formidable adversary in Marvel’s interconnected universe. As thrilling as this upcoming encounter in “Avengers: Doomsday” may be, there’s a high expectation for him to measure up to the illustrious roster of villains that preceded him. Admittedly, there have been some missteps – the “MCU’s villain problem” was a topic of frequent discussion for good reason. However, it’s important to acknowledge that there have also been notable successes, including Loki, Thanos, and Erik Killmonger.

Each character has left an indelible mark on the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) beyond their original movie villain roles. Loki, post-redemption, is now the God of Time and Stories, essentially the one maintaining the continuity of timelines. The Snap remains the MCU’s most significant event, even if Thanos may not return. Additionally, Killmonger has made a comeback, as seen in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, thanks to Eyes of Wakanda. Notably, this return enhances the villain’s importance. Note: This article contains SPOILERS for Eyes of Wakanda.

The four episodes of “Eyes of Wakanda” unfold significant events in Wakandan history, focusing on the War Dogs, their covert operations, and their adventures across different time periods. The concluding episode, titled “The Last Panther,” transports us back to 1896, where we find Prince Tafari and War Dog Kuda embarking on a mission to recover a stolen Vibranium axe – the exact same artifact that Killmonger steals from the museum in “Black Panther.

It turns out that the axe holds a greater significance than we previously understood. Using it initiates a series of occurrences, culminating in a member of the Black Panther dynasty, originating from five centuries ahead, appearing to unveil its crucial function within our timeline.

  • By taking it in 1896, it will never be retrieved by Killmonger.
  • Because of that, the events of Black Panther won’t transpire, and Wakanda will never open its borders.
  • Eventually, a powerful, all-conquering group called the Horde will emerge from space, destroying most of Earth, which couldn’t stand against them without Wakanda’s help, before they eventually take Wakanda too.

Fortunately, Tafari and Kuda heed the warning and bring back the axe, ensuring its timely progression. The episode concludes with their success being confirmed, depicted through an animated reenactment reminiscent of Black Panther, where Killmonger is seen examining a collection of artifacts, among which is the axe.

As a die-hard cinema enthusiast, I must say that Killmonger has undeniably joined the ranks of the MCU’s most formidable and captivating villains, standing shoulder to shoulder with Loki and Thanos in terms of significance. In essence, he serves as a pivotal turning point, much like they did, shaping the very course of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The destiny of not only Wakanda but also our planet hinges on his actions, making him an essential piece in this grand narrative puzzle.

Following the “Black Panther” movie, Killmonger has resurfaced on numerous occasions: in the multiverse-themed “What If…?”, in “Wakanda Forever”, and now in “Eyes of Wakanda”. Instead of weakening his character, these appearances merely enhance his impact within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, fortifying the power of his villainous narrative from the initial film.

All four episodes of Eyes of Wakanda are now streaming on Disney+.

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2025-08-01 18:38