The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) continues to push the boundaries of its multiverse storytelling in the latest episode of Disney+’s hit series “What If…?“. In Season 2, Episode 2, fans were treated to a thrilling new rendition of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes, set against the backdrop of the 1980s.
In this alternate reality, the Avengers are born out of necessity as a young Peter Quill, imbued with celestial powers by his father Ego, launches an attack on Earth. In a significant departure from the familiar MCU storyline, Yondu fulfills his contract by returning Quill to Ego, setting the stage for an entirely different superhero ensemble.
The ’80s Avengers: A Blend of Old and New
This unique version of the Avengers is orchestrated by none other than Howard Stark and Peggy Carter. However, only two familiar faces from the original team, Chris Hemsworth’s Thor and Sebastian Stan’s Winter Soldier, remain part of this extraordinary lineup.
The new heroes joining the Avengers in this alternate timeline include:
1. Black Panther (King T’Chaka): In this universe, it’s not T’Challa but his father, King T’Chaka, who takes up the mantle of the Black Panther. The global threat posed by Peter Quill and Ego’s attack on Earth prompts Wakanda to intervene, making King T’Chaka an unexpected addition to the Avengers.
2. Mar-Vell (Wendy Lawson): Fans may remember Mar-Vell from “Captain Marvel,” where the Kree scientist operated under the alias Wendy Lawson. In “What If…?”, Keri Tombazian takes over the character as Mar-Vell joins the Avengers in their quest to protect Earth.
3. Ant-Man (Hank Pym): While Michael Douglas’ Hank Pym played a mentor role in the MCU, this alternate reality offers a chance for Pym to become the Ant-Man associated with the Avengers. His return to action follows the disappearance of his wife, Janet Van Dyne.
4. Goliath (Bill Foster): Lawrence Fishburne’s Bill Foster, a character from “Ant-Man and the Wasp,” steps into the spotlight as Goliath, showcasing his impressive size-changing abilities during the battle.
5. Peter Quill (Star-Lord): Initially a villain in this storyline, Peter Quill eventually joins the Avengers in their mission to thwart his father Ego’s destructive plans, wielding newfound Celestial powers.
Take a look at the full breakdown of Marvel What If Season 2 Episode 2 New Avengers and get to know the five new heroes in action with this exciting video:
The Future of the ’80s Avengers
The formation of the Avengers decades earlier than in the main MCU timeline raises intriguing questions about their future. With Hank Pym back in action, it’s possible that his daughter, Hope, could take on the role of the Wasp sooner than expected. Additionally, Isaiah Bradley, introduced in “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier,” could become an essential part of this unique Avengers roster.
The fate of the Winter Soldier also remains uncertain, as he begins to regain control over his true identity. Whether he rejoins the Avengers for future missions is a tantalizing possibility.
As for the return of these ’80s Avengers, fans can only hope that this captivating storyline will be revisited in a sequel episode of “What If…?” The unresolved threat of Ego hints at the potential for more adventures with an expanded superhero lineup.
The first two episodes of “What If…?” Season 2 are now streaming on Disney+, with new episodes releasing daily until December 30, promising even more exciting alternate realities and unexpected superhero alliances for MCU enthusiasts to enjoy.
