Who Can Killgrave Control in the Marvel Cinematic Universe?

Kevin Thompson Kilgrave, one of the most memorable villains in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, has an ambiguous presence due to the decision by Disney to de-canonize the Netflix series. This article explores possible contenders within the MCU who could stand against Kilgrave, based on the current canon set by Kevin Feige. Given that all these characters are fictional, we will speculate on their potential against Kilgrave.

Understanding the Power of Kilgrave

Kilgrave is often depicted as a master of mind control, capable of forcing individuals to obey his every command. In the Netflix series, his powers are shown to be nearly omnipotent, and his control was broken only by a ritual sacrifice. However, since the Netflix series is no longer considered canon within the MCU, there is no established baseline for Kilgrave's numerical and supernatural abilities within the broader Marvel universe.

The Canon vs. Non-Canon Dilemma

Disney's decision to de-canonize the Netflix series means that the presence and powers of Kilgrave are not officially recognized within the MCU. Even if Disney wished to re-bless the Netflix series, this would not automatically make them part of the official canon. Currently, Kilgrave is not officially part of the MCU, and thus, there is no concrete explanation for his abilities within the broader universe.

Potential Contenders Against Kilgrave

Doctor Strange - Magic Protection

Doctor Strange is one of the most powerful magical beings in the Marvel universe. With his vast knowledge of magic, he has ensnared multiversal threats and even imprisoned Dormammu. Given his access to mystical energies, it is plausible that Doctor Strange could potentially resist or even counter Kilgrave's mind control through his immense magical protections and powers.

Scarlet Witch - Magical Protection

Wanda Maximoff, also known as the Scarlet Witch, hails from a family with inherent magic abilities. Her reality-warping powers and her history of using mystical energies make her another potential candidate to resist Kilgrave's mind control. The Scarlet Witch could use her abilities to shield herself and others from the mind-oppressing impacts of Kilgrave.

Wong - The Master of the Mystic Arts

Wong, as a senior member of the Aggregates of Thought and a Master of the Mystic Arts, wields powerful magic. His expertise in the realms of mysticism and his deep understanding of magic could offer a significant boost in resisting Kilgrave's mind control. While his role in the MCU is less explored compared to Doctor Strange and the Scarlet Witch, his capabilities are still formidable.

Enhanced Physiology

Other MCU characters with enhanced physiology can theoretically fight against Kilgrave. Captain America's and Captain Marvel's enhanced physical attributes, Iron Man's advanced technology, and Thor's godlike powers could all potentially provide a defense against Kilgrave's mind control. However, the extent to which these abilities could compete with Kilgrave's powers would depend on the specific details of his own abilities and the current canon.

In the case of Dr. Strange, the Scarlet Witch, and Wong, their natural abilities are more closely aligned with magical defenses, which may offer a greater counter to mind control. However, modifications to these characters' powers, such as Iron Man's advanced armor, Captain Marvel's godlike physiology, and Thor's otherworldly strength, might still provide a formidable challenge, though they may not be as direct in combating mind control as magic.

Focus on Current Canon

The rule for production established a "one way street" for material, allowing content from the MCU to influence other properties but not vice versa. This means that while the Netflix series can inform the fanbase, it cannot be integrated into the official canon without explicit re-blessing by Kevin Feige and the Marvel Studios team. Therefore, any future appearances of Kilgrave would need to be re-established within the MCU's narrative to align with the current canon.

Until such time, the focus remains on the characters and their existing abilities within the current MCU. Speculating on their potential against Kilgrave can provide a fun analysis but must be tempered by the current canon restrictions.