Something that always gives Marvel fans a thrill is a character we haven’t seen for a while showing up in the latest MCU movie, even if they aren’t that major a figure in the franchise. It turns out that’s something we have in common with Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige, too, who’s revealed that he loves bringing back characters people aren’t expecting. But could this be a hint that he’s going to be pulling the same trick again in the future?
While taking part in his first ever Reddit AMA earlier in the week, Feige was asked if he had any plans to re-use “forgotten” MCU characters like Abomination, Justin Hammer and the Leader down the road. The producer didn’t directly answer the question, but did point to a couple of recent times when surprising faces made a return.
“I’m not sure I’d call them forgotten characters but I love bringing back characters people think they’ve seen the last of. For example, General Ross and Harley.”
William Hurt’s General Ross first appeared in The Incredible Hulk before returning eight years later for Captain America: Civil War. He now seems to be a regular supporting character, as he’s shown up for cameos in Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame, too. Meanwhile, many fans were stumped when Ty Simpkins reprised his role as Harley Keener in Endgame, a role he previously played six years ago in Iron Man 3.Â
So, what secret returns could Feige have up his sleeves next? Well, the fan who asked the question was likely trying to get the exec to confirm the recent reports that Marvel’s developing a Thunderbolts film. The idea is that Feige’s favorite General Ross will recruit a bunch of former MCU foes, including Hammer and Abomination, to do some good for a change. The Leader is said to be the villain of the piece.
Feige was never going to give the game away on that front just yet, but his words certainly suggest that his fondness for unexpected cameos will continue as the MCU heads into Phase Four.
