In the ever-expanding Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), fans have witnessed the rise of iconic superheroes, from Iron Man to Black Widow. However, as the universe continues to evolve, there remains a cadre of beloved characters from Marvel Comics that are yet to grace the big and small screens. Here, we present our top 10 picks for Marvel superheroes that are long overdue for their live-action debut.
10. Beta Ray Bill While Thor has proven worthy of Mjölnir in the MCU, there is another hero from the comics who wielded the mighty hammer — Beta Ray Bill. A horse-faced alien from the planet Korbin, Bill not only defeated Thor but also earned the enchanted hammer Stormbreaker from Odin. Despite glimpses of his statue in “Thor: Ragnarok” and Stormbreaker in “Infinity War” and “Endgame,” Beta Ray Bill deserves a full-fledged MCU appearance.
9. Tigra (Greer Nelson) Originally known as “The Cat,” Greer Nelson fought crime with cat-themed gadgets and a neon yellow costume in her initial iteration. A later transformation into Tigra, a ferocious cat/human hybrid with magical powers, has the potential for a compelling live-action adaptation. With a mention of Greer in “Hawkeye,” fans are eager to see Tigra join the MCU.
8. Ka-Zar of the Savage Land (Kevin Plunder) Ka-Zar, seemingly a Tarzan-inspired character, distinguishes himself by living in the Savage Land, a secret primordial world in the Antarctic filled with dinosaurs and humanoid mutates. While Ka-Zar might appear as a typical jungle hero, his connection to the unique Savage Land offers the potential for a captivating series or movie.
7. Captain Britain (Brian Braddock) A mystical champion chosen by the wizard Merlyn, Captain Britain, also known as Brian Braddock, has been a part of the Marvel Universe since the ’70s. With ties to the UK, leadership of Excalibur, and a prominent sister, Psylocke, Captain Britain’s rich background could provide compelling storytelling as mutants are introduced into the MCU.
6. Darkhawk (Christopher Powell/Connor Young) In the ’90s, Darkhawk gained popularity with his own series, featuring teenager Christopher Powell switching places with a powerful alien android. The recent relaunch with Connor Young, a star athlete with Multiple Sclerosis, presents an opportunity for a fresh and relevant live-action adaptation with the right mix of origin, costume, and powers.
5. Moondragon (Heather Douglas) Moondragon, a martial artist with psychic powers, has ties to Drax the Destroyer and Thanos. Simplifying her origins, making her Drax’s daughter, could introduce familial conflict and LGBTQ representation. With connections to prominent MCU characters, Moondragon’s inclusion could add depth to the cosmic side of the MCU.
4. Quasar (Wendell Vaughn) Wendell Vaughn, also known as Quasar, served as an Avenger in the early ’90s and carried his own solo title. With the Quantum Bands introduced in The Marvels, the MCU could explore Vaughn’s journey as the chosen Protector of the Universe, adding a new cosmic hero to the expanding roster.
3. Nova (Richard Rider/Sam Alexander) While the Nova Corps has been introduced, Richard Rider, the original Nova, and the recent teenager, Sam Alexander, are yet to make their MCU debut. Tying their origin to the offscreen destruction of Xandar could provide a compelling narrative and contribute to the MCU’s need for more spacefaring heroes.
2. Doctor Voodoo (Jericho Drumm) Originally known as Brother Voodoo, Jericho Drumm became Doctor Voodoo and even served as the Sorcerer Supreme, succeeding Stephen Strange. With magical powers beyond the realm of Doctor Strange, Doctor Voodoo could bring a fresh perspective to the mystical side of the MCU.
1. Spider-Woman (Jessica Drew) Despite her name, Jessica Drew is not a mere copy of Spider-Man. With arachnid-based powers and ties to both SHIELD and HYDRA, Spider-Woman offers a unique narrative that fans have been eagerly awaiting. Whether on film or TV, Jessica Drew’s live-action debut is long overdue, and collaboration between Sony and Marvel Studios could make it a reality.
As the Marvel Cinematic Universe continues to expand, the inclusion of these characters could bring fresh dynamics, diverse narratives, and exciting storylines to captivate both long-time fans and new audiences alike. Marvel Studios has proven its ability to breathe life into even the most obscure characters, and these ten superheroes are ripe for their moment in the spotlight.
