MCU Introduces Beloved Thor Variant and Resolves Popular Phase 4 Character Arcs

Warning! This article contains spoilers for What If…? season 3, episode 6.

Exploring the Multiverse: The Marvel of What If…?

What If…? has emerged as a groundbreaking series within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), unveiling some of the most intriguing cameos and alternate versions of beloved characters. The animation has garnered a significant following, not only for its unique storytelling but also for its ability to stretch the boundaries of the MCU’s narrative landscape. Unlike other multiverse narratives, such as Loki’s examination of the Time Variance Authority (TVA), What If…? has ventured far beyond the confines of the Sacred Timeline, allowing for unparalleled creative freedom.

The series dives deep into the imaginative realms of the Marvel Universe, showcasing its heroes and villains in unexpected scenarios—think characters reimagined as zombies or other once-forgotten personas taking center stage. This flexibility has allowed What If…? to thrive on creativity, something the TVA typically restricts.

Frog Thor Makes a Splash Again After Three Years

Throg Makes A Noteworthy Appearance in What If…?

The concept of the Void was first introduced in the inaugural season of Loki, where various iterations of Loki encountered one another, from President Loki to Kid Loki and even an alligator version. Within this eclectic mix, viewers are treated to a brief clip featuring a frog-inspired version of Thor trapped in a jar. While this cameo was short-lived, it marked the beginning of Frog Thor’s place in the MCU.

Since that moment, Throg (Frog Thor’s moniker) has been largely absent from the Multiverse Saga, even as other productions like Deadpool and Wolverine skimmed through the Void, unveiling myriad other character variations. However, What If…? recently rewarded fans with a fleeting yet nostalgic reappearance of Throg alongside Alligator Loki. While this moment consists of a still image narrated by the Watcher, it has reignited interest in this one-of-a-kind variant.

Why Throg and Alligator Loki Captivated Audiences

The Viral Nature of Animal-Inspired Heroes

Throg and Alligator Loki quickly became standout characters in Loki, charismatic enough to resonate with audiences despite limited screen time. Their popularity surged, sparking fan art, merchandise, and extensive online discussions. This phenomenon underscores the potent appeal of animal figures in superhero narratives, tapping into fans’ affection for both iconic heroes and whimsical reinterpretations.

Reimagining established characters as animals might seem unconventional, yet it has proven to be a formula for intrigue and excitement within the fandom. Engaging comic book enthusiasts familiar with these obscure variations only adds to the thrill—Marvel Studios has successfully brought these unlikely figures to life in a way that appears both ludicrous and visionary.

What If…? Variants in Avengers: Secret Wars

Avengers: Secret Wars: A Gateway to Infinite Possibilities

As Loki demonstrated, even the most unconventional variants can leave a lasting impact on fans. What If…? is furthering this legacy, hinting at more appearances of these beloved characters within the MCU. While Throg and other animal-inspired heroes may not typically lead a series or dominate a feature film’s narrative, the Multiverse Saga is designed to embrace limitless possibilities, offering a unique stage for their involvement in epic confrontations like Secret Wars.

With Avengers: Secret Wars on the horizon, fans can anticipate a cinematic experience filled with potentially unparalleled cameos from across the MCU. Much like the grand finale in Avengers: Endgame, where Doctor Strange summoned heroes through magic portals, Secret Wars could see these creatures from the multiverse unite alongside iconic figures, creating exhilarating battle sequences. What If…? has piqued our curiosity about Throg’s future—in hopes of seeing him again in upcoming Marvel narratives.