An underrated MCU icon explains what makes their character stand out in a multiverse of superheroes

In the ever expanding MCU, it can be hard at times to keep track of all the cameos and characters. Some have been around for years, others just joined the party, and all (hopefully) have something to bring to the table. Now, with Marvel’s new series Secret Invasion set to hit Disney Plus this summer, one longtime member of the MCU family weighs in on what it means to be a human in the face of so many superpowered people.

Cobie Smulders, the actress responsible for portraying Maria Hill (longtime S.H.I.E.L.D. partner to Sam Jackson’s Nick Fury), spoke to Vanity Fair about her time with Marvel, and how being a plain old human can make an impact.

“‘Listen, I would’ve loved superpowers at some point, but it’s also intriguing playing a human in this world because you’ve made the choice to really put your life in jeopardy,’ Smulders said. ‘This is a Marvel story where the humans can shine. Even though there are aliens, and there’s going to be extraordinary fight sequences, this is about people on the ground talking to each other, and interviewing people, and really do hands-on work to get the information needed.’”

In essence, Smulders articulates what we all know to be true; it doesn’t matter how great the VFX are, how crazy the powers get, or how wild the action — if the story doesn’t ground itself emotionally, nothing matters anyway. No matter how high the stakes may get, any bit of Marvel action needs one magic ingredient; genuine humanity.

When discussing the story surrounding Secret Invasion, Smulders touched on what makes this show special. Centered around shape-shifting Skrulls and their, to put it lightly, disagreements with Nick Fury and co. — Secret Invasion could be the answer to our MCU prayers.

“I think Maria Hill has really run out of patience,” Smulders explained. “She’s always had this really close relationship with Nick Fury, but he’s been gone for so long, and she’s just been running around putting out fires.”

Partnering with Marvel for over a decade, Cobie Smulders deserves more credit. She’s a grade-A badass, and one of the most interesting women working in Hollywood— if anyone needs more screen-time, it’s this gal.

Adding a true human element to Secret Invasion is what seems to set this series apart from its predecessors, and could make it one of the most unique franchise entries in recent memory.