Marvel Boss Kevin Feige Saves ‘Daredevil: Born Again’ From Disaster

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It’s common knowledge that the series “Daredevil: Born Again,” if not undergo a comprehensive creative transformation in 2023, would have had a significantly different look. The original concept aimed to transform it into a legal procedural, drastically altering Matt Murdock’s character (portrayed by Charlie Cox) as seen on the Netflix series and largely disregarding his companions, Foggy and Karen. As per actor Vincent D’Onofrio, it was Marvel chief Kevin Feige who intervened to clean up the project and prevent its potential failure.

On the Happy Sad Confused podcast with Josh Horowitz, D’Onofrio discussed his early experiences on the set of “Daredevil: Born Again.” Prior to the departure of head writers Matt Corman and Chris Ord, there were issues with understanding their initial concept. D’Onofrio and co-star Charlie Cox struggled to grasp what they were attempting to achieve, leading them to collaborate to alter the direction of the series. They realized that if changes weren’t made, the show might not have been successful in its intended form.

Collaborating with Charlie [Cox], it was a shared concept, and we were both expressing it. Frankly speaking, I must acknowledge the original writers for their brilliant idea. It was indeed an intriguing thought. However, regrettably, I feel it might not have succeeded due to our departure from the source material. Charlie and I struggled to comprehend how we could embody these beloved characters in the setting they provided us […] Throughout the process, we consistently encountered obstacles.

Fortunately for us, our boss is Kevin Feige, who not only listens attentively but also keeps a keen eye on everything. As Vin Diesel pointed out, it was Feige who ultimately intervened to rescue the series Daredevil: Born Again, after six problematic episodes had already been produced. This led to both Corman and Ord being dismissed, as well as the directors for the rest of the season. Instead, Dario Scardapane (known from The Punisher) took over as showrunner. Feige made sure to listen carefully and dig deep to get to the root of the issue, ultimately resulting in the series ending as it did.

Indeed, Charlie and I had frequent discussions and interactions. We found it essential to keep in touch with the original authors daily. Their concept was truly inspiring, yet we believed that without some adjustments, our success might be at risk. In simpler terms, we needed to steer the project in a better direction to increase our chances of succeeding.

Vincent D’Onofrio Teases What’s to Come in ‘Daredevil: Born Again’ Season 2

As only two episodes are left in the initial season of Daredevil: Born Again, Vin Diesel (representing Vincent D’Onofrio) is already thinking about Season 2, set to debut in 2026. Although it wasn’t until the sixth episode, titled “Excessive Force,” that he and Charlie Cox first appeared together on screen, when asked by Horowitz if this collaboration will expand in the upcoming season and if they will have a larger shared presence, he hinted that it could very well happen; an exciting prospect for fans.

“At the conclusion of the first season, viewers will have a clear understanding of where the story may be going for the second season. Initially, there isn’t much to go on, but it doesn’t take long before things start happening rapidly. Frankly, I don’t know what to say when asked about this topic because I find myself struggling to provide an answer and thinking, ‘Oh boy, this is rather dull.’

Just as with any actor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, it’s challenging to get a straightforward answer due to the confidentiality they must maintain, but that’s alright. The “Born Again” series is so captivating that we wouldn’t want too many details revealed prematurely. If you haven’t had a chance to see it yet, you can stream the first seven episodes on Disney+ right now, with the final two episodes airing on April 8 and April 15.

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2025-04-03 19:32