The MCU’s Trevor Slattery, From Mandarin to Wonder Man, Explained

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A well-known original character from the Marvel Cinematic Universe is coming back in a new series premiering January 27th, only on Disney+. The show introduces Yahya Abdul-Mateen II as Simon Williams, a rising actor whose life takes a dramatic turn when he becomes a superhero. This series marks the start of a big year for Marvel, leading up to the release of Avengers: Doomsday in December.

Joining the cast is Ben Kingsley, the Academy Award-winning actor famous for roles in films like Gandhi and Schindler’s List. He’s considered one of the greatest actors of his time, which makes his appearances in the Marvel Cinematic Universe particularly interesting. For over ten years, the eighty-two-year-old Kingsley has played the unique character of Trevor Slattery, first appearing in Iron Man 3 and now returning in Wonder Man. Here’s a recap of everything you need to know about Slattery before the new film.

Trevor Slattery Was Behind the MCU’s Worst Reveal in Iron Man 3

In Iron Man 3, Trevor Slattery shockingly appears by taking over U.S. news channels with a message for the West. He claims to be “the Mandarin,” the leader of the Ten Rings terrorist group, and accepts responsibility for several bombings. To demonstrate his power and challenge President James Ellis, he even executes a man on live TV. This escalates when the supposed terrorist leader attacks Tony Stark’s Malibu mansion with armed helicopters, destroying the building and sending Stark into the ocean.

In Marvel comics, the Mandarin is one of Iron Man’s most dangerous and persistent foes. He’s a genius-level intellect and master martial artist, but his real strength comes from ten powerful alien rings, each giving him a unique ability. Because of this, the Mandarin has become known as Iron Man’s ultimate enemy, so many fans were thrilled when he was announced for the Marvel Cinematic Universe. However, the MCU took the character in a completely unexpected direction, surprising comic book readers.

Having recovered from a near-fatal battle, Iron Man teams up with War Machine to track down the Mandarin’s base. They’re stunned to find that the Mandarin isn’t a powerful figure at all, but Trevor Slattery, a frightened actor. Slattery admits the whole persona was created by Aldrich Killian, the head of Advanced Idea Mechanics (AIM), who used him as a smokescreen for his real plan. Ultimately, Iron Man and War Machine stop Killian’s scheme, defeating him and his followers.

The Mandarin’s introduction in Iron Man 3 was widely disliked by Marvel Cinematic Universe fans, who felt misled by the way the villain was presented. However, the short film All Hail the King suggested the possibility that the true Mandarin still existed within the MCU. The film is presented as an interview with the imprisoned Trevor Slattery, conducted by a reporter who ultimately reveals ties to the actual Ten Rings organization. The short concludes with a Ten Rings agent taking Slattery into custody, stating that the genuine Mandarin wants to reclaim his identity.

Trevor Slattery’s Return in Shang-Chi Helped Redeem the Character

Back in 2014, the true Mandarin hinted at a larger story, but Marvel didn’t explore that idea until the 2021 film Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. The movie introduces Wenwu, an ancient Chinese warlord who discovered ten magical rings that granted him immortality and superhuman powers. Over a thousand years, Wenwu used these abilities to conquer lands and build a powerful empire. As the head of the Ten Rings organization, he became known as one of the world’s most feared leaders.

When Shang-Chi, Wenwu’s son, is taken to the Ten Rings base, Wenwu—the true Mandarin—explains what happened in Iron Man 3. He reveals that someone pretended to be him and caused trouble, but dismisses it as an irritating incident that’s already been dealt with. The truth comes to light when Shang-Chi finds Trevor Slattery, the actor who impersonated the Mandarin, held captive in the Ten Rings basement. Slattery explains he’s been Wenwu’s prisoner for years as punishment for his role in Iron Man 3. Instead of executing him, the Ten Rings kept him around to provide entertainment, effectively making him their resident performer.

Shang-Chi and his friend Katy free Trevor Slattery from captivity, and he accompanies them on their journey to the magical land of Ta Lo. Though not a fighter, Slattery tries to help defend Ta Lo when the Mandarin attacks. He survives the battle, and after Shang-Chi receives the Ten Rings, Slattery vanishes, likely intending to start a new life.

Trevor Slattery started as a controversial character in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but his appearance in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings helped fans see him in a new light. His comedic style worked much better in that film than it did in Iron Man 3, where audiences were surprised to learn his true identity. Ben Kingsley brilliantly played the intimidating fake Mandarin, and he’s just as good at portraying the humorous Trevor Slattery. Now that viewers have moved past the twist from Iron Man 3, Marvel seems more open to including Slattery in future projects, like Wonder Man.

What to Expect From Trevor Slattery in Wonder Man

Trevor Slattery is back in the Disney+ series Wonder Man, and we see him attempting to revive his acting career. It’s not easy, though, since most people in America still remember him for pretending to be a notorious terrorist. The latest trailers show Slattery trying to move past that role with new ventures, like The Slattery Method, an online acting class for aspiring performers.

The upcoming film seems to be leaning into Trevor Slattery’s comedic side. Trailers feature both actors talking about acting, with a funny exchange where Slattery jokingly calls it “the most important thing a person can do.” Ben Kingsley is expected to deliver a particularly funny performance as the quirky British actor who unexpectedly became a memorable part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

With the upcoming release of Wonder Man, it’s still unknown how significant Ben Kingsley’s role will be. He might be a key player, or his appearance could simply tie the show to the wider Marvel Cinematic Universe. So far, Kingsley is the only actor confirmed to return from previous Marvel projects, although there’s speculation that groups like Damage Control will also be featured. His character could create a link between Wonder Man and Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, potentially opening the door for other characters – even Simu Liu’s hero – to join the series.

The return of Justin Hammer (Slattery) could bring the Ten Rings organization back into the Marvel Cinematic Universe. We haven’t seen much from them since their leader, Wenwu, died in Shang-Chi, even though his daughter, Xialing, took over. The new Disney+ series, Wonder Man, might finally address this loose end. It’s possible Xialing will pursue Slattery after he escapes the Ten Rings, which would put her on a collision course with Wonder Man.

Ben Kingsley is reprising his role as Trevor Slattery in Wonder Man, marking a significant evolution for the character. Once portrayed as a terrifying villain, Slattery has become known for his comedic moments, and he’s set to bring more of that humor to the newest Marvel Cinematic Universe project.

All episodes of Wonder Man premiere on Disney+ on January 27.

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2026-01-11 02:41