Phase One of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) faced an enormous challenge. It was essential to introduce a plethora of new characters, many of whom did not receive the attention or development they deserved in subsequent films. This phase was foundational, establishing heroes, villains, and even entire realms, yet it left several intriguing characters underutilized. For various reasons, numerous figures introduced during this initial phase have not been revisited or have received disappointing arcs, leaving fans yearning for more.
Some of the lesser-known Phase One characters barely registered on screen but possessed significant potential for further narratives. Unfortunately, the outcomes for many characters introduced during this crucial phase have not met expectations. Below are some notable examples of characters from Phase One who were either sidelined or poorly developed.
10. Maria Hill
A Fatal End in an Overlooked Series
Maria Hill, played by Cobie Smulders, emerged as an unofficial seventh member of the original Avengers lineup. Her role as a dedicated S.H.I.E.L.D. agent and Nick Fury’s right hand was vital in battles against iconic villains like Loki and Ultron. Unfortunately, her character met an unexpected demise in the poorly received Disney+ series Secret Invasion, where she was killed by the Skrull shapeshifter Gravik, disguised as Fury. This death served more as a shock tactic rather than a fulfilling narrative conclusion, diminishing her significance in the storyline and leaving many fans unaware of her fate.
9. The Original Human Torch
An Ignored Legacy
The Original Human Torch, distinct from his Fantastic Four counterpart, was one of Marvel’s earliest heroes. Jim Hammond fought alongside Captain America and Namor during World War II as an android with pyrokinetic abilities. However, in Captain America: Brave New World, he merely appears as an Easter egg trapped in a glass tube during the Stark Expo, instead of engaging in heroic feats. His potential for a compelling storyline was missed, serving only as background decoration rather than an active participant in the MCU narrative.
8. The Leader
A Villain Left Unfulfilled
Despite the challenges posed by complex legalities surrounding Hulk movies, The Incredible Hulk attempted to set up future appearances for key characters, including the villain known as The Leader, whose transformation was hinted at through Dr. Samuel Sterns. Unfortunately, after being introduced, Sterns vanished from the MCU until recently when speculation arose about his return in Captain America: Brave New World, making his original introduction feel like a missed opportunity.
7. Doc Samson
An Underrated Rival
Doctor Leonard Samson, portrayed by Ty Burrell, is another significant Hulk character that failed to develop beyond The Incredible Hulk. As a psychiatrist in love with Betty Ross, his jealousy of Bruce Banner set the stage for a compelling rivalry. However, in the comics, Samson gains gamma-enhanced strength, turning him into a formidable counterpart to The Hulk. The film’s conclusion, which relegated him to a single appearance, neglected the potential for his character growth.
6. Betty Ross
The Overlooked Love Interest
Liv Tyler’s Betty Ross stands out as the MCU’s most neglected romantic interest. Initially a crucial support for Bruce Banner, she quickly faded from the narrative. Her father, General Ross, continues to appear in the later MCU films, raising questions about Betty’s absence in future arcs. While she is anticipated to return in Captain America: Brave New World, her disconnection from Bruce Banner’s journey feels disjointed and undermining of their initial bond.
5. The Red Skull
A Legendary Antagonist Turned Minor Character
The Red Skull, Captain America’s most formidable villain, initially promised a continuous threat within the MCU. However, after being teleported away by the Cosmic Cube, he was reduced to a brief cameo in Avengers: Infinity War. This transformation into a mere background character denied fans an opportunity to witness his evolution into a more menacing and persistent adversary.
4. The Warriors Three
A Disgraceful Departure
The Warriors Three—Hogun, Fandral, and Volstagg—were significant allies in Thor, yet they received little respect in later appearances. Their demise in Thor: Ragnarok was rushed and lacked the gravitas expected from such beloved characters. Thor’s quick disregard for their deaths deprived fans of an emotional and satisfying farewell to these iconic Asgardian heroes.
3. Whiplash
A Wasteful Exit
Ivan Vanko, also known as Whiplash, was introduced in Iron Man 2 as a worthy foe for Tony Stark. However, rather than continue to develop him as a significant threat, the film ends with Vanko initiating a self-destruct sequence on his suit, effectively writing his character out of the story. This decision squanders his potential and the dynamic conflict he could have provided in future films.
2. Justin Hammer
A Charismatic Villain Left Behind
Justin Hammer, portrayed by Sam Rockwell, was a fan-favorite villain in Iron Man 2, celebrated for his charm and comedic flair. Despite his popularity, the character effectively vanished from the MCU without explanation. Given that Hammer remains incarcerated, there was ample opportunity for his return with fan service potential, yet he has not resurfaced in any substantial capacity since his debut.
1. The Hulk
An Iconic Character Marginalized
The character of The Hulk, despite being integral to the Avengers, has suffered significant neglect throughout the franchise. His transformation into a lesser personality, dominated by Bruce Banner’s character, has left fans disappointed. While Thor: Ragnarok provided some exploration of The Hulk, subsequent events involving Thanos pushed the character to the sidelines. The inclusion of Hulk’s character was drastically reduced in later films, with unresolved potential lingering from Phase One.
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