Marvel’s “What If…?” series, confirmed for a second season even before its premiere, continues to intertwine TV shows and movies in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), first seen on Disney+. This animated series delves deeper into the multiverse concept, initially explored in “Loki.” With a total of nine episodes in its first season, “What If…?” offers a unique twist on the MCU’s narrative by presenting alternate timelines. These timelines, part of the broader multiverse, are shaped by pivotal moments in the main MCU storyline unfolding differently, creating a rich tapestry of “what could have been” scenarios.
“What If…?”, Marvel’s unique animated series, showcases standalone stories with intriguing twists on familiar characters and narratives. In this series, Peggy Carter, portrayed by Hayley Atwell, becomes Captain Carter after receiving the Super Soldier serum, Chadwick Boseman’s T’Challa transforms into Star-Lord, and there’s a dark turn where the Avengers Initiative recruits meet untimely ends. The series’ pivotal moment occurs when The Watcher, voiced by Jeffrey Wright, forms the Guardians of the Multiverse to thwart Ultron’s plans to conquer the multiverse. Following the conclusion of “What If…?” season 1, there’s been significant anticipation and curiosity about the direction of the series. Critics have generally praised the show, acknowledging that while it might not significantly alter the larger MCU storyline, its fresh perspectives on beloved characters and some of the most thrilling action sequences in the franchise make it a captivating watch, as noted in reviews on Rotten Tomatoes.
Recently, Marvel unveiled the trailer for the much-anticipated second season of “What If…?”, which was released on November 15, 2023. The trailer not only confirmed the season’s premiere in December 2023 but also provided insights into the new season’s storylines and aesthetic. It offered fans a preview of what to expect in terms of narrative and visual style, and notably introduced a new character, Kahhori, a fresh addition to the MCU’s roster of heroes, who will feature in the upcoming season.
The release date for “What If…?” season 2 is set for December 22, 2023, with its season finale scheduled to air shortly thereafter on December 30, 2023. This scheduling turns the release of the new season into a special holiday event, bridging the gap of almost two years since the debut of the first season. Additionally, this timing positions “What If…?” to round off the MCU’s lineup for 2023. Following closely on its heels, the next MCU series, “Echo,” is slated for release on January 10, 2024, continuing the momentum of Marvel’s expansive storytelling into the new year.
Marvel What If…? Season 2 Is Confirmed
At San Diego Comic-Con 2022, Marvel shared details about the upcoming “What If…?” season 2. Initially, in 2019, Kevin Feige, the president of Marvel Studios, announced that the first season of “What If…?” would feature ten episodes and that a second season was already in the early stages of development. However, due to production challenges related to COVID, the first season was ultimately released with only nine episodes. In a discussion about the season finale, the series’ head writer, A.C. Bradley, mentioned that the scripts for all episodes of “What If…?” season 2 had been completed, indicating readiness for the next phase of production.
What If…? Season 2 Stories
In a conversation with A.C. Bradley, the head writer of Marvel’s “What If…?” it was disclosed that season 2 will continue the anthology format, incorporating alternative narratives from Phase 4 of the MCU. Bradley emphasized that the upcoming season will delve deeper into character-driven stories, showcasing different and unexpected facets of familiar heroes, with a focus on relatability. This approach opens the door for characters from MCU films released in 2022 to be featured in the new season. However, Bradley clarified that “What If…?” is distinct from other Phase 4 projects in that it isn’t designed to lay the groundwork for “Avengers 5.” Instead, the show explores a wide range of possibilities within the existing framework of MCU movies, TV shows, and characters.
At the San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) 2022, the first episode of “What If…?” season 2, titled “What If… Captain Carter Fought the Hydra Stomper?” was showcased in full. This episode confirmed a reunion between Captain Carter and Steve Rogers, who in her universe has become akin to the Winter Soldier. Additionally, several other storylines for season 2 were revealed. These include Odin battling The Mandarin, Tony Stark substituting Thor in a Valkyrie/Hulk team-up on Sakaar, and a story set in the year 1602. Key characters such as Captain Carter, Iron Man, Black Widow, Thor, Hawkeye, The Wasp, and even Bigfoot are set to appear in various episodes of “What If…?” season 2.
How What If…?’s Season 1 Ending Sets Up Season 2
In the season 1 finale of “What If…?”, the Watcher, a character traditionally bound to a role of non-interference, broke his oath to actively protect the multiverse. This significant deviation suggests potential far-reaching consequences within the broader multiverse, given the impact of his involvement in human affairs. The Watcher’s choice to intervene and assume the role of a guardian hints at a more engaged and influential role for him in upcoming narratives.
Additionally, the finale highlighted a critical assignment given to Doctor Strange, placing him in charge of guarding over Killmonger and Ultron, who are locked in an endless conflict. The importance of this task is underscored by the fact that their potential escape could lead to catastrophic outcomes for the multiverse. This particular storyline, involving Doctor Strange’s guardianship and the delicate balance he must maintain, presents a rich narrative thread that “What If…?” season 2 might further explore and develop.
What If …? Season 2 Cast
“Marvel’s What If…?” season 2, being developed concurrently with the first season, retains many of the voice actors from its inaugural season. Jeffrey Wright continues as The Watcher, Hayley Atwell reprises her role as Peggy Carter, Josh Keaton voices Steve Rogers, and Lake Bell is back as Natasha Romanoff. The season 2 premiere, screened in 2022, featured Elizabeth Olsen and Rachel Weisz, who returned to voice their MCU characters, Wanda Maximoff and Melina Vostokoff, respectively. Cynthia McWilliams also returns, voicing Gamora in a storyline originally planned for season 1 but shifted to the second season. Additionally, Cate Blanchett is confirmed to voice Thor’s sister, Hela.
With season 2 set to include characters from Phase 4 of the MCU, there is anticipation for new voices corresponding to these recent additions. While not officially confirmed, it’s plausible that actors from Disney+ series such as “Moon Knight,” “Ms. Marvel,” and “She-Hulk” could lend their voices, given their existing ties to both Marvel and Disney+. Similarly, actors from “Shang-Chi and the Ten Rings” and “Eternals” might also make appearances in “What If…?” This inclusion would be particularly interesting for the “Eternals” cast, considering the uncertainty of their next appearance in the MCU.
“Marvel’s What If…?” season 2, being developed concurrently with the first season, retains many of the voice actors from its inaugural season. Jeffrey Wright continues as The Watcher, Hayley Atwell reprises her role as Peggy Carter, Josh Keaton voices Steve Rogers, and Lake Bell is back as Natasha Romanoff. The season 2 premiere, screened in 2022, featured Elizabeth Olsen and Rachel Weisz, who returned to voice their MCU characters, Wanda Maximoff and Melina Vostokoff, respectively. Cynthia McWilliams also returns, voicing Gamora in a storyline originally planned for season 1 but shifted to the second season. Additionally, Cate Blanchett is confirmed to voice Thor’s sister, Hela.
With season 2 set to include characters from Phase 4 of the MCU, there is anticipation for new voices corresponding to these recent additions. While not officially confirmed, it’s plausible that actors from Disney+ series such as “Moon Knight,” “Ms. Marvel,” and “She-Hulk” could lend their voices, given their existing ties to both Marvel and Disney+. Similarly, actors from “Shang-Chi and the Ten Rings” and “Eternals” might also make appearances in “What If…?” This inclusion would be particularly interesting for the “Eternals” cast, considering the uncertainty of their next appearance in the MCU.
Will there be a season 3?
The animated series “What If…?” from Marvel has been renewed for a third season, a decision announced at Comic-Con 2022, mirroring its early renewal for a second season before the first had even premiered. This continued commitment to the series suggests that the unfolding events of season 2 will likely pave the way for an expanded array of multiverse stories in season 3. However, the unique format of “What If…?” allows for a wide range of storytelling possibilities, with each episode exploring different alternate scenarios within the Marvel Universe. The series thrives on the concept of exploring various “what ifs,” and with the backing of Disney/Marvel’s substantial resources, the potential for creative and diverse storytelling seems virtually limitless. Season 3 is expected to further showcase this expansive storytelling approach.
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