Friday, April 24, 2020

Updated Slate of Rumoured MCU Projects

Image result for marvel cinematic universe logo

I haven't done a comprehensive overview of rumoured MCU content since last June, but recently a Redditor made his own attempt (it cites sources, but without links), so that's prompted me to update it. In this post I'm only covering films/shows that are unconfirmed--tracking those rumours through time as best I can (I've ignored Marvel Entertainment/Jeph Loeb scoops unless they seem relevant; I've also ignored WGTC's content because it's discredited). Just as a reminder, Loeb officially lost his power in October, but the writing was on the wall long before that (corporate moves like this take time). You will see the tag "TBK" for the Lords of the Long Box--that's to clarify that the information comes from their original source rather than Mikey Sutton. Here is our cast of characters:
  • Roger Wardell - a true insider (no one knows who he is)
  • Daniel Richtman - long time scooper, most of whose information seems to come from various casting grids/calls put out by the studios
  • Charles Murphy - formerly of MCU Exchange and That Hashtag Show; cantankerous scooper with a good track record (his sources are the information referenced for Daniel along with some conversations with agents)
  • Rich Johnston (Bleeding Cool) - rarely a scooper in my experience, but with decent credibility
  • Jeremy Conrad - made his hay from The Eternals scoop; doesn't seem to have the same access that Daniel does (from what I can tell he doesn't have access to casting grids)
  • Discussing Film (Jacob Fisher) - mix of the usual casting information and personal connections
  • GWW (Geeks Worldwide) - access to the same material as Daniel (much of their information seems to come directly from him)
  • The Illuminerdi - former contributors to That Hashtag Show; not included below, because none of their scoops apply, but again, the same basic info that Daniel has
  • Mikey Sutton - long time scooper; part of a group of insider comic speculators, although it's difficult to parse what kind of information he receives
  • Lords of the Long Box ("the Black Knight") - their original source is also part of the speculator group, but his information seems more consistent in terms of where it comes from--it seems like he's aware of what the MCU is researching (comics/characters)
  • Cosmic Book News (Matt McGloin) - I'm not familiar with him, but he comes across as a little unhinged and in the sampling I've seen does not source his info
  • HN Entertainment (Christopher Marc) - I'm not really familiar with him or his site
  • Reddit/4chan - they know a guy who knows a guy--occasionally that's actually true
  • Fake Roger Wardell - an account that pretends to be the real deal (included for tracking purposes)
Quite a few of these illustrious people have had their content banned on the Marvel's Spoiler Reddit, as they've been deemed too unreliable (or for persistent self-advertisement). Below I've listed projects in approximate chronological order of rumours. Official sources or information are highlighted in blue; those bits of information that have already been debunked or are not moving forward are in red.

MCU Films

Betsy Braddock: Psylocke/Captain Britain Appreciation 2019 - Page 101

Captain Britain

(July, 2017) Kevin Feige said: "We have discussed it [Captain Britain in the MCU]. There are a lot of actors that come in and ask about that part, so we’ll have to see."
(April, 2019) "Braddock" is named in Endgame during the 1970 flashback
(August, 2019) It was revealed that there were early plans to include the character in Far From Home, but they were scrapped early
(August, 2019) LotLB (TBK) said he's coming--in the clip they said they predicted this two months earlier, but if so I either missed it or it pre-dates when I started paying attention (so in May)
(November, 2019) Sutton says Captain Britain will be a member of Excalibur for a planned trilogy
(April, 2020) Fake Roger Wardell says the Darkhold will be fundamental for a Captain Britain project

The name drop in Endgame is a clear signal that the MCU wants to do something with the character, but it's not at all clear what that is at this stage. A solo venture for the British hero seems less likely, unless it's a show, so being part of a team makes the most sense (and Excalibur is quite distinct as an IP, but I can't imagine it predating the X-Men). I wonder if Feige will embrace Betsy Braddock in the role, allowing for Revanche/Kwannon to have a separate role in the MCU (thus having a truely Asian character rather than the bizarre mishmash Claremont saddled comics with for decades).


Namor

(November, 2018) When asked about the character Kevin Feige says they are figuring out "if and when"
(March, 2019) Scott Derrickson Tweets out an image that includes Namor that he promptly deletes (at this stage no script was written and we learned later his version of the film was never written)
(April, 2019) Murphy reported an uncertain rumour that Marvel had worked out the details of a solo film and had been scouting locations for months (he later learned this scouting was for Shang-Chi)
(April, 2019) Endgame has a potential easter egg (the earthquake near Africa)
(May, 2019) LotLB (TBK) says Dwayne Johnson is negotiating to be Namor and appear in Black Panther 2, an idea they repeated in June (Given everything going on with DC this cannot be true at this point)
(June, 2019) Reddit says Avi Arad owns the rights to Namor and that Marvel wants the character in Black Panther 2
(July, 2019) Daniel (Patreon) reports a rumour that Namor will be in Black Panther 2
(August, 2019) GWW casting scoop they think is for Namor (this comes via Daniel)
(September, 2019) 4chan says Namor is the antagonist for Black Panther 2
(November, 2019) 4chan says Namor will be introduced in Black Panther 2
(December, 2019) Murphy teased Namor on social media without context
(January, 2020) Murphy believes a quote from Feige about introducing a character they've always wanted to use, but you wouldn't expect in Doctor Strange 2, is in reference to Namor
(January, 2020) Sutton (same link) says Namor will appear as part of the Illuminati in Doctor Strange 2
(January, 2020) Conrad says the MCU has regained the full rights to the Hulk and Namor
(January, 2020) Murphy says he's heard no concrete rumours about Namor or a change in the rights situation
(March, 2020) Mark Ruffalo says the rights to the Hulk are unchanged (this refutes part of Conrad's rumour above)

The usually reliable Murphy has stumbled a couple of times with Namor scoops due to his exuberance for the character. I don't believe Conrad's claim that the rights are back at Marvel--or, rather, his word isn't enough for me to believe it (I go through all the things we know about those rights via his link above). I think the character is coming and will initially be an antagonist, but I believe we'll see a younger actor in the role (40 at the oldest). Black Panther 2 is a much more likely place for him to be introduced, rather than Doctor Strange 2 (the latter is busy enough as it is, and there's no sign of Namor in the casting grids for that film yet either). It is worth noting that by not using Namor, Marvel makes Universal hanging onto his rights less and less worthwhile, although Comcast might be willing to simply spite Disney and never relinquish them anyway (if they have that option).

Avengers48.jpg

Black Knight

(December, 2018) Wardell says Marvel was considering him for a solo film
(January, 2019) 4chan claims there are plans to introduce Black Knight in the MCU. The concept would be that he is trapped in the Quantum Kingdom, a subatomic city first glimpsed in Ant-Man and the Wasp. The Quantum Kingdom would feature people from across time and space who were accidentally pulled into the Quantum Realm, among them Black Knight, who in the comics is a time-displaced Arthurian Knight
(January, 2019) Conrad claims Black Knight will be set-up in Endgame
(August, 2019) LotLB (TBK) say he'll be part of an Excalibur trilogy, something Sutton repeated in November

If it seems odd to include a character that's debuting in The Eternals, keep in mind we're looking at speculation for his own film. I don't expect he'll get a solo vehicle--he's not the kind of character I think can carry that burden. Instead, like in the comics, I think he'll be a member of a team (albeit, not The Eternals, which I think is one-and-done)--the Avengers is the simplest answer, but I think the MCU wants to branch out and avoid having that be a grab-all for non-mutant characters.

Image result for thunderbolts marvel

Thunderbolts

(December, 2018) Wardell says Marvel has 'big plans' for them, providing this roster: Zemo, Ghost, Justin Hammer, General Ross, Abomination, and the Leader
(May, 2019) LotLB (TBK) Feige isn't that interested in the Thunderbolts, so if they appear, it will be on TV (I believe meaning, at that time, Jeph Loeb's Hulu); a month later they speculated the acquisition of Fox would push Feige away from the property
(September, 2019) LotLB (TBK) says Thunderbolts is coming to Disney+
(November, 2019) Conrad says early development has begun on Thunderbolts
(January, 2020) Daniel says the group will be introduced in Falcon and the Winter Soldier
(February, 2020) LotLB (TBK) put out a reserve list for a Thunderbolts show

I was skeptical about this idea at first, but it really does seem like the team is coming (although a show seems more likely than a film)--to what purpose is not yet clear (just as I think the composition of the team remains up in the air). Will Marvel really pursue a group of anti-heroes or villains, or will it be something else entirely?

The Inhumans (Comic Book) - TV Tropes

Inhumans

(December, 2018) Adam McKay pitched an idea for a film to Kevin Feige
(August, 2019) Conrad speculates the group will be re-booted given the Ms. Marvel series
(September, 2019) Daniel says Ms. Marvel is being used as a backdoor reboot of the IP (the date of the link is October, but he posted this on his Patreon earlier)
(September, 2019) LotLB (TBK) Black Bolt put on a reserve list for the MCU
(October, 2019) GWW says at least Black Bolt and Maximus are being cast for Ms. Marvel
(October, 2019) Reddit (link above) says the royal family will appear in Ms. Marvel and elsewhere in the MCU, but not receive their own film
(January, 2020) Reddit says Black Bolt, Maximus, and Karnak will appear in Ms. Marvel
(February, 2020) Sutton says there are plans for the Fantastic Four to meet the Inhumans in their sequel
(April, 2020) Fake Roger Wardell Ms. Marvel being used as a reboot for the IP

It seems unlikely we'll see a film for the IP any time soon, given how poorly the ABC show was received, but there's no doubt that Kamala Khan's arrival means their inclusion in the MCU. We can't forget that Feige worked on the IP for years before the property was given to ABC and Jeph Loeb.

Related image

Young Avengers

(July, 2018) Murphy says Marvel commissioned a script for a film
(January, 2019) 4chan claims there are plans to revamp the Avengers franchise post-Endgame with a combination of the comics' New Avengers and Young Avengers. A team that mixes up established MCU heroes with a new generation of teenage/young adult heroes inspired by the original Avengers. The idea is for the project to play up the eclectic cast and the 'culture clash' between the two age groups
(May, 2019) 4chan claims there are plans for New Avengers and Young Avengers, but neither are in active development
(September, 2019) Daniel says a Disney+ series is coming
(September, 2019) LotLB (link above) says either a film or a show
(September, 2019) Sutton (link above) says there will be a Young Avengers film
(September, 2019) LotLB (TBK, link above) says it will be a Disney+ show and put Wiccan on the reserve list
(October, 2019) Murphy reports a rumour from one source that the Young Avengers will be introduced in Ant-Man 3
(November, 2019) 4chan says they will appear in Ant-Man 3
(April, 2020) Daniel says the IP is in active development
(April, 2020) GWW (same link) said Marvel was taking pitches for the IP (neither saying for a film or show)
(April, 2020) GWW says the team will have its original lineup

I have no interest in this IP whatsoever, but all the dominoes have lined up for it to happen (with its members sprinkled across other IP). Where they appear is almost irrelevant, although I suspect it's destined to be a show not a film (it looks a great deal like CW-fare to me).

Image result for dark avengers

Dark Avengers

(October, 2018) Murphy reports that Marvel commissioned a script for Dark Avengers
(January, 2019) 4chan claims there are plans to introduce Norman Osborn in the MCU as essentially 'evil Tony Stark,' a wealthy entrepreneur and technological genius who uses his intellect and resources for evil, and sponsors and spearheads his own team of villains--he might not even become Green Goblin
(May, 2019) 4chan claims there are plans for Dark Avengers, but does not describe them as being in development

This idea hinges heavily on Norman Osborn and, given the rights situation with Sony, it's difficult to imagine Marvel ever committing to him. What's more likely is that elements of this idea will be transferred over to the Thunderbolts and used (if, indeed, Marvel wants to use them).

Image result for john krasinski mr fantastic

Fantastic Four

(April, 2019) Kevin Feige says it will be a long time before we see the IP
(May, 2019) 4chan claims they won't appear until Phase Five
(May, 2019) LotLB (TBK) Peyton Reed in discussions to direct; story will pull from Lee, Byrne, and Hickman
(June, 2019) Conrad says the film will be a 2022 release (echoed by GWW, same link), an idea specifically debunked by Roger Wardell
(June, 2019) Reddit says no FF film for five years
(July, 2019) Cosmic Book News says the FF will have existed during the active era of Hank Pym, but get trapped in the Negative Zone, speculating this origin could connect to Annihilus and the Annihilation comicbook event
(August, 2019) LotLB (TBK) Feige doesn't want to use Peyton Reed's old 1960s era FF script, instead wanting them to work in modern day and be part of SWORD for their origin
(August, 2019) LotLB (TBK) Reed is still in talks to write/direct FF, planning to borrow from the John Byrne and Jonathan Hickman runs
(September, 2019) 4chan the film will come out in Feburary, 2022
(September, 2019) Sutton says Spider-Man will be mentored by Reed Richards
(October, 2019) Daniel says the film is in active development and should come out 'soon'
(November, 2019) 4chan Reed pushing to direct (the post claims Travis Knight will direct Ant-Man 3, which we already know is false)
(December, 2019) 4chan film will come out in 2022 and feature Mole Man; Travis Knight in discussions to direct
(December, 2019) Sutton Frankie Raye will be Johnny Storm's love interest, following her origin of becoming Galactus' herald (Frankie's appearance echoing LotLB, TBK, back in August)
(February, 2020) Sutton says they will be introduced in Ant-Man 3, their first film will be them travelling through space, and the main villain will be Mole Man; repeats that Richards will be Spider-Man's mentor
(April, 2020) Murphy implies the FF will debut in Ant-Man 3
(April, 2020) Sutton says John Krasinski is in talks to play Reed Richards (as popularly speculated by the fandom for years), reiterating the idea that he'd mentor Spider-Man

With the shifted Marvel slate I think any hope for a 2022 film died (assuming there was any reason to hope to begin with). The following year is definitely an option. I don't know that the FF need an introduction in another film, although it would certainly help Ant-Man 3 if they did (I don't buy that theory yet). I don't think Peyton Reed will direct the film--he's piloted the two least successful films in Phase Two and Three (with the second worse than the first) and, however much Feige may like him, he's not getting the keys to an A-grade IP after that. The above includes a lot of different ideas, but I don't think we know enough to lean one way or another.

Chris Claremont X-Men & New Mutants Reading Order

X-Men

(April, 2019) Kevin Feige says it will be a long time before we see the IP
(May, 2019) 4chan claims they won't appear until Phase Five
(June, 2019) LotLB (TBK) the second film will focus on the Savage Land; they also said two associated X-characters will appear in Black Widow
(June, 2019) Reddit (link above) said no X-film for five years
(July, 2020) LotLB (in a video now deleted, along with the rest of their first channel) says the film will be called House of X and follow Jonathan Hickman's current X-plans
(September, 2019) Sutton says Marvel is discussing a Hulk vs Wolverine film, the story being Hulk gets sent to retrieve Wolverine from Canada, who is also being sought by Alpha Flight (LotLB's other source, TBK, echoed the rumour); Sutton clarified this weeks later, saying it was being discussed, with the title perhaps being Weapon X
(September, 2019) Sutton says the film is a few years away, but that characters will appear beforehand and saying in Doctor Strange 2 first; he said Joss Whedon is being considered to direct
(September, 2019) FCC put out some clickbait that received verbal support for the idea, but no other backing (which tells you everything about the substance)--I think the source of this was a speculative Tweet from First Class writer Zach Stentz
(September, 2019) Sutton (second link above) said Arcade was being considered as the initial antagonist
(January, 2020) Reddit Wolverine will have a cameo in Falcon and the Winter Soldier

Just like the FF this is a long way off--2023 or 2024. I do think we'll see the characters peppered in beforehand, albeit where isn't clear. I like the gradual approach in theory, which suits the version of the team I want better than the original Lee/Kirby group.


Nova

(May, 2019) 4chan claims a film is in active development
(June, 2019) LotLB (TBK) Richard Ryder Nova film is coming
(June, 2019) Reddit (same link) Nova is in development and the character will appear in Guardians 3
(August, 2019) LotLB (TBK) says Nick Fury will train the Richard Ryder Nova
(August, 2019) LotLB (TBK) an actor auditioned for the role (someone in their 20s who had been in a Christopher Nolan film)
(September, 2019) Sutton says Marvel wants Jon Watts to direct the Nova film
(September, 2019) Sutton says he'll be introduced in Captain Marvel 2 and be trained by her and Nick Fury
(October, 2019) Daniel says Nova is in active development, something he repeats in November
(October, 2019) Conrad says it's a Phase Five film
(October, 2019) 4chan planned for Phase Five in 2023, as a prequel called The Fall of Xandar (depicting the events before Infinity War); Richard Ryder and a genderbent Sam Alexander are the stars
(January, 2020) Murphy says its in active development
(February, 2020) 4chan says an invented Richard Ryder daughter (Beth) will be introduced in Captain Marvel 2 as an antagonist, but become Carol Danvers' love interest
(February, 2020) Sutton says it will be Richard Ryder and he'll be introduced in Captain Marvel 2 as an agent of SWORD and have a friendship with Spider-Man
(March, 2020) 4chan says he'll debut in Captain Marvel 2

Keep in mind that the character was initially planned for Guardians of the Galaxy and elsewhere, so there's no question he's coming eventually. The first film where he would make sense to appear would be Thor 4, but I think that's highly unlikely because so much is already going on in that movie, so Captain Marvel 2 is more likely. How he's received will impact whether he gets his own film, I believe.

A-Force (2016) #1 | Comic Issues | Marvel

A-Force

(June, 2019) LotLB (TBK) says a film is coming (this would be after ABC passed on making a show)

I've always found this idea puzzling--are the men all on vacation? In a comic you can have some fun with the idea and not worry about the logic of it, but on screen I don't know how far an all-female team takes you in this context. That doesn't mean it can't or won't happen, just that the idea seems dated.

Ryan Reynolds Paid Out Of His Own Pocket To Ensure The Success Of ...

Deadpool 3

(August, 2019) Ryan Reynolds teases the character for Phase Five; how seriously we can really take this is an open question, but given that it would be his first MCU appearance, I've included it
(November, 2019) HN Entertainment believes the LLC 'Finger Guns Productions' is for the film

It's still not clear to me how Feige will deal with Deadpool--will he actually be integrated into the MCU, or will he live a Netflix-like existence of adjacent, but ignored? I suspect the latter, but time will tell.

Excalibur Classic - Volume 1: The Sword is Drawn: Amazon.ca ...

Excalibur

(August, 2019) LotLB (TBK) say Captain Britain and Black Knight will be part of an Excalibur trilogy (other members being Kitty Pryde, Psylocke, and Nightcrawler)
(November, 2019) Sutton says Captain Britain will be a member of Excalibur for a planned trilogy (the team is similar, but not identical to the above: Captain Britain, Black Knight, Deaths Head, Kitty Pryde, Cerise, Longshot, Pete Wisdom, Widget, and Daytripper)

As I mentioned above, it makes sense for Captain Britain and his associated characters to be part of a team (at least if it's a film), but it seems unlikely a team that features prominent mutant characters would appear before the X-Men. It's possible for the team to not have mutants in it and come sooner, but as it stands we're off in speculation land--given the MCU slate, it can come no sooner than 2023.

Silver Surfer (video game) - Wikipedia

Silver Surfer

(December, 2018) Adam McKay wants to do a Silver Surfer movie
(September, 2019) Daniel says a film is being developed
(September, 2019) GWW says a film is being developed
(March, 2020) LotLB (TBK) put out a reserve list for the film

I'd be surprised if we get a solo film for him, although if it's pitched as a Galactus vehicle that could work. My issue with the focus being on the Surfer himself is he's an obscure, weird character who requires a big budget (doesn't mean it can't work, just that it's a bigger risk). I assume he won't appear until until after FF, so I don't think we'll see this any time soon (if it's indeed coming).

Disney+/TV

Marvel 1602 - Comics by comiXology

Marvel 1602

(Unknown, 2018) Neil Gaiman pitched a series to Feige for Disney+, but they passed on it

I wonder if Feige's decision was made because of the impute Gaiman likes to have on his stories, or if he simply did not like the pitch.

Image result for howard the duck

Howard the Duck

(September, 2018) Lea Thompson pitched a reboot of the franchise, but Marvel turned her down

Down the line this IP might see some life (clearly Hulu was going to try to do something with it); an animated version, perhaps, although I don't know how much appeal it would have.

Image result for nick fury

Nick Fury

(October, 2018) Conrad reports a rumour about a Nick Fury show on Disney+ and this was immediately shot down by Peter Sciretta from Slash Film
(January, 2019) Daniel (Patreon) says a show is in early development
(August, 2019) LotLB (TBK) says a Disney+ show is being considered

I have no idea what you'd do with this kind of show. There's been no shortage of Fury on screen and with an actor in his 70s, where is this story supposed to take you? There's no obvious passing of the torch to make or character journey to go on, which is why he works so well in other people's stories. I'm not saying its impossible, but I can't see an overriding reason for him to have his own show.

Image result for rocket and groot

Rocket & Groot

(November, 2018) Murphy reports a rumour that this will be a show on Disney+
(January, 2019) 4chan echoes the idea
(February, 2019) Daniel (via his Patreon) says a show is in development
(February, 2020) Sutton says the series is coming

Plenty of people would want to watch this, but I wonder if its prohibitively expensive to produce for TV (animation would, of course, make this much simpler).

Image result for power pack marvel

Power Pack

(December, 2018) Wardell says discussions about a Disney+ show are occurring
(May, 2019) Conrad says development has commenced (without being sure if it's a film or show)
(August, 2019) LotLB (TBK) says it's coming to Disney+
(September, 2019) Daniel says it's coming to Disney+; Murphy claimed to be the source of this info because of something he wrote in 2017, but that was specifically for a film, so it's not that definitive
(December, 2019) Conrad thinks it will be an animated series

I have no interest in this whatsoever, but an animated version makes a lot of sense (if it happens).

Image result for lady sif

Lady Sif

(January, 2019) Discussing Film claims a Disney+ show is coming
(January, 2019) 4chan claims it has been pitched as a “sidequel” about Lady Sif’s journey across the Nine Realms after being betrayed and exiled by Loki masquerading as Odin. Beta Ray Bill would be featured as one of Lady Sif’s companions in her journey, and the Enchantress would be the main antagonist. Jamie Alexander is willing to return, but they are still figuring out a schedule that doesn’t conflict with her (now cancelled) TV show Blindspot
(February, 2019) Daniel (via his Patreon) says a show is in development
(June, 2019) Victoria Alonso saying she loves the character and the actress

Jaimie Alexander is still young enough to pull this off, but you can't hang the show on her character (which has barely made a blip in people's radar and hasn't been since since 2014)--she would need to be part of a team or paired up with someone to draw people's interest.

Image result for war machine mcu

War Machine

(January, 2019) 4chan claims it's a “sci-fi thriller about Rhodes pushing the boundaries of his own humanity as he investigates the theft of Stark Industries’ technologies and uncovers a conspiracy masterminded by an elusive organization that is providing criminals and terrorists with cybernetic enhancements. Envisioned as a “deep dive” into War Machine’s lore, introducing his sister Jeanette Rhodes, girlfriend Glenda Sandoval, and friends Suzi Endo and Jake Oh, with Parnell Jacobs and Stewart Clarke as villains. Limiting factors are the budget and Don Cheadle’s schedule."
(February, 2019) Daniel (via his Patreon) says a show is in development
(August, 2019) LotLB (TBK) says a show is coming
(April, 2020) Sutton says a show is coming, attaching a reserve list that includes Ironheart

When this comes up I always question it due to Cheadle's age and the limited general interest. In Sutton's scoop it's implied he'll be part of a larger team (Force Works), and that's an angle that takes it from improbable to maybe (although I remain dubious).


Agent 13 (Sharon Carter), NebulaOkoyeHank PymThe Ravagers, and The Sentry

(January, 2019) 4chan claims all are being discussed
(September, 2019) LotLB (TBK) had Sentry on reserve for film
(February, 2020) Sutton says Sentry is probably coming, probably to Disney+

Most of these are easily dismissed. Could we see The Sentry? I suppose, but I don't think he can carry his own show or film without others involved to draw in viewers.

Image result for deathlok

Deathlok

(April) Deadline reported rumours that Deathlok was coming to the big screen (I speculated that this error was made because Marvel was researching his origin issue for other characters within it)

I think this was a speculation error by Deadline and, having appeared on Agents of SHIELD already, I think the odds of him reappearing are very small (and certainly not in his own show).

The Defenders (TV Mini-Series 2017) - IMDbJon Bernthal Has Sharp Words for Alt-Right 'Punisher' Fans | The ...

Daredevil, Jessica Jones, Luke Cage, Iron Fist, and Punisher

(July, 2019) Conrad floated the idea that Daredevil could be Spider-Man's lawyer in Spider-Man 3, something LotLB (TBK) refuted at the time, but see below
(July, 2019) Cosmic Book News said all the characters will be rebooted, with plans for a Heroes for Hire IP (he wasn't sure if it was a show or film)
(August, 2019) LotLB (TBK) says when the rights return the Netflix characters, with the same cast, will be moved to FX (correct or not, this idea was almost certainly intended for the Loeb-verse)
(September, 2019) Sutton echoes the FX idea above
(September, 2019) Sutton says Charlie Cox will return as Daredevil
(October, 2019) LotLB (TBK) says Charlie Cox will return as Daredevil in Black Widow 2, which will feature Scarlett Johansson as Black Widow
(October, 2019) Daniel says Feige wants to keep some of the Netflix characters, but reboot others (naming Iron Fist in the latter category)
(October, 2019) Daniel (link above) says Feige wants to keep Jon Bernthal as the Punisher
(October, 2019) Conrad says someone at Marvel wants to keep Charlie Cox and Krysten Ritter in their roles
(November, 2019) Sutton says Iron Fist will be recast, appear in Shang-Chi 2, and have his own Disney+ show following the Fraction/Brubaker run, but with the antagonist being Sabretooth
(November, 2019) Daniel (link above) said there was a chance Vincent D'Onofrio's Kingpin could appear in She-Hulk
(January, 2020) Conrad says the Netflix IP is being worked on
(January, 2020) Murphy says nothing officially is going on with the Netflix IP
(February, 2020) Reddit says a new deal with Netflix is being struck to continue the shows, but with a re-cast Iron Fist and a Heroes for Hire show
(March, 2020) LotLB (TBK) repeated that Charlie Cox will return as Daredevil in the MCU
(April, 2020) Fake Roger Wardell says a Heroes for Hire show is coming to help bind the Netflix IP to the MCU

This glut of rumours covers nearly all the scoopers, but most suffer from the same problem: Feige doesn't want to acknowledge or include the Loeb-verse IP, so he won't (I don't think this is debatable at this point--all the evidence points to it). I don't buy any of the rumours that suggest continuity. Rebooting them makes perfect sense, and almost certainly Daredevil is the priority in that respect (given Disney's branding, I think it's unlikely we'll ever see the Punisher). I also want to specifically address Sutton's Iron Fist show: how could you do the Immortal Iron Fist version of the character when Shang-Chi is doing the exact same shtick ahead of you? The only way forward for Iron Fist, I believe, is his original Heroes for Hire persona and role (something that will contrast with what's being done with Shang-Chi).

Amazon.com: X-Factor by Peter David: The Complete Collection ...

X-Factor

(July, 2019) LotLB (TBK) say a series is coming to FX under Jeph Loeb (saying it will follow Peter David's run on the comic)

This is a weird one for me, as I don't see this happening under any circumstance (the decision to boot Loeb would have been made around the time the Fox rights were coming back, so transferring any of that IP to the Marvel Entertainment seems impossible). I happen to like David's X-Factor, but (again) think mutant teams are on hold until the X-Men have appeared.

NEW MARVEL DISNEY PLUS AGENTS OF SWORD TV SERIES! INHUMANS THANE ...

Agents of SWORD

(July, 2019) LotLB (TBK) says a show is coming to Hulu (Loeb), which they reiterated in August (twice)
(November, 2019) 4chan says a show is coming that will feature Nick Fury, Maria Hill, The Exile, Supergiant, and Thane
(January, 2020) Reddit says a show is coming and will feature Quake and some other Agents of SHIELD characters

The idea in general is plausible, but AoS characters are never going to appear on it. I wonder, however, how keen Feige is on doing something that (on the surface) is so similar to the ABC show.

Two-Gun Kid Vol 1 84 | Marvel Database | Fandom

Western-Themed Show

(July, 2019) LotLB (TBK) said a Western-themed show would spinoff the Hulu (Loeb) iteration of Ghost Rider
(February, 2020) Sutton echoed the basic idea saying it will spin off a time-travelling epic that unites the Avengers and Fantastic Four
(February, 2020) LotLB (TBK) echoing the above idea, included a reserve list of characters

I can believe Loeb wanted to dive into a Western (cheaper and more palatable to ABC). What I don't know is if Feige would be interested in that idea--Westerns don't really make money, even if period pieces in general are popular.

Valkyrie (Marvel) Image #2695270 - Zerochan Anime Image Board

Valkyries

(July, 2019) Youtuber Kinda Culty mentioned a red carpet comment from Tessa Thompson that a Valkyrie Disney+ show is coming--no one else has covered or mentioned this that I can find, nor can I find the clip of her saying it (WGTC has pushed the idea, but without referencing these comments)
(August, 2019) Daniel (Patreon) says a series is being developed
(October, 2019) Sutton says a Valkyries prequel series is being developed

This was a really weird idea that virtually no one would be interested in (why a prequel?). I think you might be able to do something with the IP, but not without including characters people are actually excited for. Even combining this with the Lady Sif idea doesn't really add much to lure in viewers (if there's a breakout character in Ragnarok it's Korg, not Valkyrie).

Brother Voodoo - Wikipedia

Strange Tales

(August, 2019) LotLB (TBK) Brother Voodoo and Clea will get their own show after appearing in Doctor Strange 2

While I'm dubious of this idea, there is some potential here (there are plenty of popular supernatural-based shows)--it's more plausible than Sutton's variation of this below.

Dakota North (1986) #1 | Comic Issues | Marvel

Dakota North

(August, 2019) Deadline reported that ABC is considering an obscure female character for their Marvel IP and LotLB (same link) speculated this was Dakota North (an idea they repeated again in September
(October, 2019) Sutton says it's one of the IP considered by ABC (along with Topaz and one other)
(February, 2020) We learned the character considered was actually Elsa Bloodstone, but Feige cancelled the project

This was speculation that crashed and burned--we can't absolutely say it was never considered, but if it was, it was rejected.

Elsa Bloodstone (Ulysses' daughter, Monster Hunter)

Elsa Bloodstone

(August, 2019) Deadline reported that ABC is considering an obscure female character for their Marvel IP
(October, 2019) Daniel says there are plans for the character on TV
(October, 2019) Reddit (same link) saying the character will be part of Midnight Sons
(February, 2020) We learned Feige cancelled the project

I'm glad Feige cancelled this, as ABC would have made something mediocre and boring with what is (potentially) an interesting character.

X-Men Rumor: Gambit Disney Plus Series Full Steam Ahead?

Gambit

(August, 2019) Sutton Feige will take the Fox plans and turn it into a Disney+ show
(February, 2020) LotLB (TBK) says a show is coming to Disney+, saying it won't have Rogue and offering a reserve list

The Sutton idea is preposterous (thus far we've yet to see Feige use any idea from creative teams outside of Marvel Studios); the latter is plausible, although I don't know what the rush to put Gambit on screen would be.

New Mutants (Comic Book) - TV Tropes

New Mutants

(August, 2019) LotLB (TBK) says a show is coming (Hulu here, but changed to Disney+ shortly afterwards)

I didn't buy this at the time since Disney was stuck with Fox's moribund New Mutants--this is an IP that requires the X-Men already established to appear, so I think it's a long way off.

Here's Why You Need to Check Out 'America,' Marvel's Canceled Series

Miss America/America Chavez

(August, 2019) GWW says a series is in the early stages of development (this is via Daniel, who posted it on his Patreon the day before)
(January, 2020) GWW repeated the idea (echoed by Daniel), saying it will be the first series after those already announced

I think it's more likely that America Chavez will be part of a team-based show--unlike Kamala Khan (or Kate Bishop), she's barely a blip in fan imagination.

Doctor Doom (2019-) #2 - Comics by comiXology

Doctor Doom

(September, 2019) Conrad says one of the options being considered for the character is a show, which he pulled directly from Daniel's Patreon

This is easy speculation to make--we need more than that to take it seriously.

Ghost Rider - Wikipedia

Ghost Rider

(September, 2019) LotLB (TBK) Marvel will use the character, but not give him his own show (this goes against their earlier speculation, but all of that was connected to the Loeb-verse)
(October, 2019) Reddit says it will be the Robbie Reyes version, with continuity from Agents of SHIELD and he'll get his own Disney+ series before appearing in a Midnight Sons team-up movie
(December, 2019) Reddit may get his own series after cameoing in Doctor Strange 2, but probably recast as the MCU wants the character to be young

There's a lot more speculation about the character appearing in other IP (or as part of a team), so the above purely reflects purported scoops about his own show. I absolutely think the character will be rebooted and appear in some context, but I don't think there's any rush to get him into the MCU.

Man-Thing - Wikipedia

Man-Thing

(October, 2019) Daniel says it's in early development for Disney+ (LotLB, TBK, said something similar in August, but it was for Hulu, so presumably dates back to the Loeb-verse)

A fascinating character to use, although I wonder if the character can really support its own show (the one-and-done Swamp Thing isn't a good omen).

Hercules (Marvel Comics) - Wikipedia

Hercules

(October, 2019) Daniel says it's in early development for Disney+

This wouldn't surprise me, but we'll definitely need more information before we can really dig into it. I think LotLB's idea of him appearing in Thor 4 (or, really, any other film) is more likely than him jumping out into his own series at the start.

Secret Invasion | Marvel Database | Fandom

Secret Invasion

(October, 2019) Daniel says Secret Invasion (and Annihilation) are the next big MCU events
(January, 2020) Rich Johnston says a Secret Invasion show is coming, intended to tie into Captain Marvel 2
(February, 2020) Daniel repeats the above information

I think this is plausible and it would make sense to have a show leading into Captain Marvel 2.



Iron Man's female successor will be named Ironheart - The Verge

Ironheart

(February, 2019) Daniel says on Patreon that a series or show is in early development
(November, 2019) Conrad says a series is in early development (LotLB said she'd appear in either Phase Five or Six back in August, but not how)

There is no scenario where Ironheart starts with her own film. A character that, despite being pushed heavily since she debuted four years ago, has no real traction in the comics. This is an IP the MCU will have to build-up to maybe get a series someday.

Jericho Drumm (Earth-616) | Marvel Database | Fandom

Brother Voodoo

(December, 2019) Sutton says it will spin off Doctor Strange 2, feature a rebooted Cloak & Dagger, and spin off a Clea show

Having other IP appearing within the show makes a lot of sense, although I can't imagine Feige is in a rush to redo Cloak & Dagger. I prefer LotLB's idea above (Strange Tales), although as I said there, supernatural shows can be very successful on TV.

CLEA WILL BRING MORE MAGIC TO THE MCU IN DOCTOR STRANGE 2: EXCLUSIVE

Clea

(December, 2019) Sutton says it will spin off a Brother Voodoo show and feature Umar as the villain

Everything I said about Brother Voodoo applies here, although I don't think you could cannibalize Doctor Strange IP to this extent and succeed--better to pair the two (assuming, of course, that they are successfully received when they appear).

About The Incredible Hulk TV show, plus see the show's intro (1978 ...

Unknown A-List Series

(January, 2020) Rich Johnston says a show featuring an A-list character is being developed (someone closer to Loki than Vision in prominence)
(April, 2020) Mark Ruffalo says he's talked about a Hulk TV show with Feige

For me the only options that could fit this are Hulk, Nick Fury, and War Machine, with me leaning towards the Hulk as having the actual cache to make it work.

This Midnight Sons Series Needs to Be a Real Thing

Midnight Sons

(January, 2020) Murphy Thinks Midnight Sons is likely, but has no info
(January, 2020) Sutton says Blade will lead into Midnight Sons, with Blade, Moon Knight, Ghost Rider (Johnny Blaze), Man-Thing, and Helstrom
(February, 2020) Reddit Midnight Sons coming to the MCU (mini-series for Werewolf by Night, Man-Thing, and Elsa Bloodstone to join that of Helstrom); Roster will be the aforementioned plus Blade, Moon Knight, Ghost Rider (Danny Ketch), Satana, and the Punisher; Mephisto is the villain; to come out in 2024/25
(March, 2020) Reddit Feige is interested in Midnight Sons; Moon Knight and Blade build towards it (Danny Ketch Ghost Rider)

There's a Hulu antecedent to this, as back in April Deadline reported that Loeb wanted his shows to lead up to a Spirits of Vengeance team-up. If the above speculation is correct, is seems like the unexpected addition of Blade to the MCU is making for a somewhat similar plan here. This isn't so much Feige stealing Loeb's idea, and more the logical place to take a character like Blade. While none of the above represents proof of concept, the idea seems plausible given what's coming in the future.

JUN190884 - AGENTS OF ATLAS #1 (OF 5) SUAYAN VAR - Previews World

Agents of Atlas

(February, 2020) GWW says a show or film is being set-up by Shang-Chi

A possibility, although it requires Shang-Chi to be a hit in order to drum up interest in an otherwise unknown IP. It would help explain the gigantic cast that's supposedly appearing in the film.

Squadron Supreme - Wikipedia

Squadron Supreme

(March, 2020) Daniel says it's in development

This would be a fascinating project to see come to fruition--Marvel's faux-Justice League on screen.

Starjammers (Trade Paperback) | Comic Issues | Comic Books | Marvel

Starjammers

(March, 2020) Reddit says a show or film is in development

I think this is completely made-up, although I would enjoy seeing the characters appear. Unlike the various mutant teams they could appear before the X-Men are formed without impacting their entrance into the MCU.

To summarize: what we have is a mix of speculation, rumour, and scoops of varying value. I suspect a good number of these projects have been discussed at Marvel (Studios or Entertainment)--some may have gone as far as having spec scripts produced or had talks with various creative people, but most (as is) will never see the light of day. Regardless, this is as comprehensive as I could make it. If I've missed any other prominent rumours (or made any errors), let me know and I'll add/fix them.

This article is written by Peter Levi (@eyeonthesens)

No comments:

Post a Comment