I Think Ironheart Sets Up Riri Williams to Be a Perfect Young Avengers Villain

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In the final scene of Ironheart, Riri Williams (Dominique Thorne) struck a pact with Marvel’s version of the devil – Mephisto, portrayed by Sacha Baron Cohen – in order to resurrect her friend Natalie (Lyric Ross). On the other hand, at the end of The Marvels, Kamala Khan/Ms. Marvel (Iman Vellani) reached out to Kate Bishop’s Hawkeye (Hailee Steinfeld) regarding assembling a group of young superheroes.

Although Marvel has announced no immediate plans for a Young Avengers film, they have been gradually introducing Young Avengers members and setting the stage for their MCU debut. With Ironheart now adding to this mix, it seems that Marvel may have found an ideal adversary for the Young Avengers – a Riri Williams under Mephisto’s control – who could eventually join the team after facing off against them.

The comic book series known as “Young Avengers” was introduced in 2005 and features Marvel’s upcoming young superheroes. This team was brought to life by writer Allan Heinberg and artist Jim Cheung. In the comics, Kate Bishop was one of the initial recruits, just like she is in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). As we progress through Phases 4 and 5, more potential on-screen members have emerged. These include Kamala Khan (played by Iman Vellani) and Ant-Man’s daughter Cassie Lang/Stature (Kathryn Newton), whom Khan hints she is trying to reach out to. America Chavez/Miss America (Xochitl Gomez) was introduced in “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness,” Kid Loki appeared in Season 1 of “Loki,” and during the finale of “She-Hulk: Attorney at Law,” we caught a glimpse of Hulk’s son Skaar (Wil Deusner). Given the ending of “Agatha All Along,” it seems likely that Billy Maximoff/Wiccan (Joe Locke) and his twin brother Tommy will also join the first version of the Young Avengers. It’s even possible that Miles Morales could make his live-action debut in time to become a part of this team as well.

The Stage Has Already Been Set for Riri to Be an Antagonist

It’s obvious that Riri is a great fit for the Young Avengers, but it would be intriguing to explore her storyline involving Mephisto further before she officially becomes a member. Just as Ironheart showed us that Riri isn’t afraid to tread in morally questionable territory to push technological boundaries, having her manipulated by Mephisto and using magic alongside science could make her almost impossible to stop. This blend of magic and science would challenge the team’s magical users like Billy and Kid Loki, as well as those with a more scientific background such as Stature or Miles Morales.

Additionally, having already become acquainted with Riri, she becomes a more captivating option as an initial adversary for the Young Avengers. Through her roles in both “Black Panther 2: Wakanda Forever” and “Ironheart”, we’ve witnessed her endure a vast array of hardships. We empathize with her suffering and anger, which she has earned through being pursued by the government at such a young age, witnessing Queen Ramonda’s (Angela Bassett) selfless sacrifice, clashing with the Talokanil, and mourning the loss of several dear ones due to gang violence. Understanding an antagonist’s backstory and motivations—even if they lead to questionable actions—often results in more captivating and engaging drama.

The conflict between Iron Man (Robert Downey Junior) and Captain America (Chris Evans) in Captain America: Civil War was incredibly intense because we had grown to know and understand both characters, and their contrasting views on the Sokovia Accords. When they finally clashed, it was hard to look away. With Riri, Kate, and Kamala each having their own solo series in the MCU now, a confrontation among them would be just as gripping as the one between Iron Man and Captain America in Civil War.

In addition, if Riri Williams reappears in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), it’s highly possible that Mephisto could follow suit. The demon unveiled just a small fraction of his immense power in the last episode of Ironheart, hinting at much more to come. Introducing Mephisto as the main antagonist, with the Young Avengers joining forces to rescue Riri from her pact or another predicament (such as a deal with the resurrected Billy and/or Tommy), would create an exciting storyline. This scenario would also offer a platform for Mephisto to exhibit his full potential, while revealing his true appearance after the subtle hint in Ironheart.

In conclusion, a movie featuring the Young Avengers could serve as a fitting redemption storyline for Riri. The dynamic of Kate and Kamala persuading Riri, initially an adversary, to join their ranks sends a strong message about discovering strength and resilience within community and chosen family. Additionally, this plot would undeniably amplify the existing ensemble of young superheroes, making it all the more exciting.

Ironheart is now streaming on Disney+.

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2025-07-11 00:40