5 Ways Ironheart Sets Up The Future Of The Marvel Cinematic Universe

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Contains spoilers for “Ironheart,” Episodes 1-6

In the final episode of Marvel’s latest series “Ironheart,” Riri Williams/Ironheart (Dominique Thorne) ends up in a precarious situation when she agrees to a sinister proposition from Mephisto (Sacha Baron Cohen), aiming to resurrect her friend Natalie (Lyric Ross). This decision sets the stage for potential future adventures of “Ironheart” on both big and small screens, as Riri’s life is now entwined with that of Mephisto. Yet, it isn’t only Riri Williams’ journey that leaves us intrigued throughout “Ironheart.

In the spirit of Marvel’s Cinematic Universe, the series “Ironheart” is packed with hints about significant future events in the franchise. Subtle references to upcoming TV shows and films can be found throughout its six episodes, with five of these teases presenting in diverse ways within the storyline.

The impact of Ironheart on the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is seen in various ways, such as introducing major characters like Mephisto, hinting at future plot developments for less-known shows, and explicitly confirming the return of key supporting characters. These different approaches underscore that every event in the MCU is interconnected; as the saying goes, “it’s all connected.” The adventures of Riri Williams/Ironheart are no exception to this rule.

The introduction of Mephisto

In contrast to the prolonged conjecture about Mephisto’s appearance in “WandaVision,” it was actually the Disney+/Marvel series, “Ironheart,” that introduced this character into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). The initial five episodes of “Ironheart” subtly hinted at his arrival through cryptic whispers around The Hood’s head or a poster advertising “Faust” in the background. Finally, in the last episode of “Ironheart,” the supernatural antagonist Mephisto made his long-awaited appearance.

In the gaming world of this thrilling adventure, I found myself thrust back into Parker Robbins’ past. A harrowing chase from the law left him cornered and desperate for an escape. Just when all hope seemed lost, a mysterious figure, Mephisto, portrayed by none other than Sacha Baron Cohen, emerged. In our ensuing conversation, he presented me with a tempting proposition – the power to attain unimaginable riches, enough to make even the filthiest and most disgusting dreams come true, in exchange for his magical hood.

When the finale shifts back to the present, Mephisto reappears, now speaking with a British accent and showing a more aggressive demeanor. After Riri defeats him, this devilish character proposes an alliance to revive Natalie Washington. Though it was doubtful that Mephisto, a significant adversary in the comics, would be a temporary figure in the MCU, Riri’s decision to collaborate with him (and, in a final scene before the credits roll, showing signs of succumbing to those wicked veins as mentioned by Robbins) indicates that he is here to stay. Any subsequent MCU projects focusing on magical entities, such as a potential third “Doctor Strange” film, will need to address Mephisto’s immense power.

Parker Robbins yearns to learn magic

In the tradition of most Marvel Cinematic Universe productions, “Ironheart” includes a mid-credit scene hinting at upcoming narratives. Here, Parker Robbins enters a sweet shop managed by magic-wielding duo Madeleine (portrayed by Cree Summers) and Heather (Tanya Christensen). It’s worth noting that Riri and her mother had previously visited this place, and now Robbins is making a return.

Without his enchanted cloak, Robbins no longer possesses magical powers. Yet, when Heather asks, he expresses his readiness to learn. The scene implies that Heather might be teaching Robbins sorcery, potentially enabling him to seek vengeance against Riri Williams, despite losing the cloak given by Mephisto. This scenario not only hints at a possible storyline for Robbins in a potential second season of “Ironheart”, but also sets up an intriguing character development trajectory.

In conversation with ex-student Heather from Kamar-Taj, it’s clear that Robbins is pursuing an extraordinary level of power through his magical abilities. This term may indicate that his ambitions have grown beyond Riri and he aspires to match the power held by the Sorcerer Supreme in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, currently Wong (played by Benedict Wong). The fear of powerlessness and the desire to seize control from those in authority have consistently driven Robbins throughout “Ironheart.” Now it appears these motives are pushing him to broaden his vengeful objectives beyond just CEOs connected to his father. With Heather’s guidance, Parker Robbins could transform into a formidable magical adversary.

Ezekiel Stane’s not done yet

In the fifth episode of “Ironheart,” titled “Will the Real Natalie Please Stand Up?,” the character Joe McGillicuddy/Ezekiel Stane undergoes a significant transformation spanning across six episodes. Initially portrayed as a peaceful suburban resident concealing advanced weaponry, Ezekiel is eventually wrongly accused of a burglary that was actually carried out by Riri Williams, Parker Robbins, and their associates. This false accusation lands him in prison, but he manages to escape with the aid of Robbins, who equips him with robotic technology integrated within his physical form.

At the end of “Ironheart,” Ezekiel, who has acquired bionic powers but is under Robbins’ control, fights his former friend Riri Williams in a kitchen. Even when Ezekiel is freed from Robbins’ grip, their rivalry persists. Ezekiel makes it clear to Riri that their confrontation isn’t concluded yet. With immense anger still burning within him, he plans to take revenge on this armored superhero, channeling his fury through his actions.

It’s uncertain where exactly he will resurface in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but it’s undeniable that the enigmatic character Ezekiel is set to cause more trouble for superheroes soon. Yet, his future isn’t solely filled with wickedness. Since “Thunderbolts” focuses on characters who have questionable pasts seeking redemption, there’s a possibility that Ezekiel Stane could be given a chance to make amends. Without a doubt, the narrative of Ezekiel Stane is just getting started in “Ironheart.

There may be ripple effects on other Iron Man-adjacent projects

To avoid giving the impression that “Ironheart” is merely a copy of “Iron Man”, the series integrates elements from various Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) films beyond the initial three “Iron Man” movies. Ezekiel Stane serves as a direct connection to Tony Stark/Iron Man’s first movie, but “Ironheart” also ties into the mystical adventures of “Doctor Strange”. Furthermore, it frequently references the events depicted in “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever”, which introduced Riri Williams and her iron suit.

Now that I’ve completed my journey in “Ironheart,” it’s hard to deny the connections this series might have with other Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) productions stemming from Tony Stark’s legacy. For instance, the upcoming 2026 production titled “Vision Quest” seems to be a solo venture for Paul Bettany’s Vision character, promising appearances by villains like Ultron, played by James Spader, and Raza, portrayed by Faran Tahir. With Vision having originated as Stark’s AI, JARVIS, it wouldn’t surprise me if the Iron Man successor got a nod in “Vision Quest.

If the standalone “Armor Wars” movie featuring Don Cheadle as Colonel James “Rhodey” Rhodes ever gets made, it might draw heavily on the consequences of “Ironheart.” This is because Tony Stark’s technology can have unforeseen outcomes when it falls into uncertain hands. Although Tony Stark may be gone, his legacy continues through “Ironheart” and the MCU stories it might shape.

It foreshadows Doctor Doom’s powers

When Ironheart debuted in the summer of 2022, I was still looking forward to the fifth Avengers solo film, titled “Avengers: The Kang Dynasty.” At that time, it seemed like Kang the Conqueror would shape the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe and Doctor Doom’s appearance was set for another day. However, by the time Ironheart made its way to Disney+, all plans related to the Kang Dynasty had been abandoned, and the Avengers installment we were expecting is now known as “Avengers: Doomsday,” starring Robert Downey Jr., reprising his role as Victor Von Doom/Doctor Doom.

During the debut of “Ironheart,” executive producer Ryan Coogler remarked that this was quite fortunate as it sets up a crucial idea for Doom’s character, meaning “Ironheart” lays the groundwork for a significant concept in Doom’s storyline. By the conclusion of the series, Riri Williams successfully blends Kamar-Taj magic with her iron suit to vanquish Parker Robbins/The Hood. As a result, mystical elements like spells have been integrated into the technological realm within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

Doomsday” battle. Nonetheless, due to unforeseen circumstances, “Ironheart” has laid a significant foundation for the collaboration of magic and technology in future stories that could lead to “Avengers: Doomsday.

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2025-07-02 04:30