Are Daredevil and Other Shows Part of the MCU?

The question of whether the characters and shows from Netflix’s Marvel series, like Daredevil, Luke Cage, Iron Fist, and Jessica Jones, are part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has been a topic of much discussion. The answer is not straightforward, as it involves a careful examination of both the official stance and the current integration of these characters into the MCU.

Integration with the MCU

Snapped into the MCU? Initially, the characters from Netflix's series were not officially part of the MCU. However, with the introduction of Daredevil in the Disney series, the status of these characters began to change. In the first season of Daredevil, an episode mentions an article written by Ben about the Battle of NY. This subtle nod to the MCU timeline, combined with the inclusion of the heroes in the Disney MCU timeline, indicates a soft integration of these characters into the larger narrative.

Canon References and Connections

Canon References in MCU Films: Kevin Feige, the president of Marvel Studios, has expressed his desire to maintain the continuity of the MCU and to hopefully incorporate these characters in the future. An instance where these characters are indirectly referenced is in the Hawkeye series. In one scene, Kingpin, played by Wilson Fisk, says, "The people need to be reminded." This reference hints at the role that these characters played in the city’s narrative and ties them back to the MCU.

Darkhold Transcriptions: The Darkhold, a magical tome referenced in both Ancient One's Origin Story (AOS) and Runaways, is mentioned again in the Doctor Strange sequel. The discovery of multiple transcriptions of the Darkhold at Mount Wundagore suggests a more complex and interconnected reality in the Marvel universe, which could include the characters from the Netflix series.

Current Status and Future Plans

Current Integration: While the events of the Netflix series are not officially considered canonical, the official stance is evolving. Charlie Cox, who portrays Daredevil, has stated that he is returning for further MCU projects, implying that the MCU will likely maintain continuity with these characters. Kevin Feige has confirmed that Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and Agent Carter are part of the MCU. This is due to the clear connections between these shows and the original comics, such as the involvement of Carl Creel.

Conclusion

So, the answer to the question is a nuanced one. While the characters from the Netflix series are not officially part of the canon in the traditional sense, the MCU is beginning to integrate them more deeply into its narrative. Fans are welcome to believe that these characters belong to the MCU, but it may be some time before we see them on the big screen in a traditional MCU context.

Join us for more insights into the ever-expanding Marvel universe as it continues to merge with the MCU!