The Watcher's Knowledge of the X-Men and Fantastic Four

The Watcher, a deity-like being who oversees the cosmos, has knowledge of many key characters in the Marvel universe, including the X-Men and the Fantastic Four. His vast array of observations spans millennia and includes interactions with both groups of heroes.

History of Interaction with the Fantastic Four

The Watcher first appeared in the pages of Fantastic Four, and he is primarily associated with this title. His appearance in the Fantastic Four comic universe is a significant aspect of his identity. For instance, in one instance, Reed Richards was put on trial for saving Galactus' life, and the Watcher even summoned John Byrne, the writer and artist of the comic at the time, to witness the events. This moment is a clear breaking of the fourth wall, emphasizing the Watcher's importance and influence over the universe.

The Watcher's presence and knowledge were further demonstrated when, in the Fantastic Four title, he chose to reveal himself to the very heroes he oversees. His role is not limited to the Fantastic Four; he has also interacted with the X-Men on various occasions. One particularly notable event was the confrontation between the X-Men and the Sh’iar Imperial Guard, as detailed in the classic issue X-Men #137.

Observation and Interaction with the X-Men

The X-Men, led by Charles Xavier and including heroes like Cyclops and Professor X, have also had their share of interactions with the Watcher. Although these interactions are fewer in number compared to the Fantastic Four, the Watcher has a front-row seat for pivotal moments in the X-Men's history. This includes the legendary battle depicted in X-Men #137 against the Sh’iar Imperial Guard, showcasing the depth and breadth of the Watcher's knowledge and involvement in the Marvel universe.

A particularly memorable interaction between the Watcher and the X-Men occurred in the "What If" series, where Byrne, the artist known for his work on both the Fantastic Four and X-Men comics, contributed to the famous storyline "What If Phoenix Had Not Died." This issue not only highlighted the Watcher's presence but also his deep involvement in pivotal moments across the Marvel universe.

Legality and Rights

The Watcher's status as a character in Fantastic Four also influences his portrayal in other Marvel stories. For example, in the movie Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, none of the Watchers are named, which ties back to the rights issues surrounding the character. The creators who own the rights to certain races and characters in the Marvel universe, such as the Skrulls, do not have the same rights to the Watcher as they do to other entities like Uatu, the Watcher of the universe. This legal and rights issue ensures that the Watcher remains a recognized and special character across the comics.

The Watcher's knowledge and involvement in the X-Men and Fantastic Four are not only a testament to his powerful role in the Marvel universe but also highlight the interconnectivity and rich tapestry of the Marvel storyline. Regardless of whether these heroes appear on an What If… episode or in another format, the Watcher remains a key figure in their history and the broader Marvel narrative.