7 MCU shows that Marvel has cancelled (too soon)

7 MCU shows that Marvel has cancelled (too soon)

As a longtime fan of Marvel’s cinematic universe and television shows, I must say that both “Marvel’s Agents of SHIELD” and “Agent Carter” were undoubtedly ahead of their time. I remember watching these shows eagerly, feeling the excitement as they wove their unique stories into the broader MCU tapestry.


Experienced this situation? You’re engrossed in a TV series, appreciating every thrilling scene and plot twist, only to find out it’s taken off the air. Vanished from our screens, possibly ending without a proper conclusion. Yes, it’s happened to us all.

As someone who grew up watching Marvel movies and TV shows, I can attest that the news of Marvel shows being canceled is a bitter pill to swallow. I remember staying up late to watch “Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.” on ABC and binge-watching “Jessica Jones” on Netflix during my college years. These shows were more than just entertainment; they were a part of my life, shaping the way I saw superheroes and their stories. It’s sad to see them go, but as a fan who has weathered numerous cancellations in the past, I know that the Marvel Universe will continue to evolve and adapt, just like the characters within it. Here’s to hoping for more exciting stories from Marvel in the future!

Previously, there were several Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) shows as well, some of which have been acknowledged as part of the shared universe more recently through recent projects in that superhero world. However, it’s the current Disney Plus series that have sparked much discussion, with the Emmy-winning “WandaVision” paving a new path for the types of stories MCU could tell. The buzz has only grown since then – whether positively or negatively.

It’s being whispered that several shows initially planned for just one season could potentially return for additional episodes. Additionally, there are rumors that certain shows with multiple seasons planned were unexpectedly cancelled, as the studio shifts focus from riskier productions.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the Marvel shows that were cancelled far too soon.

7 MCU shows that Marvel has cancelled (too soon)

7. What If…?

Essentially, “What If…?” is wrapping up at its own pace, but it seems premature to many viewers. A quick glance at social media reveals a wave of discontent among fans who aren’t thrilled about the series ending.

Marvel Studios’ initial animated series is modeled after the comic books with the same title, where the storyline of the Marvel Universe unfolds differently due to altered circumstances; these changes range from substantial to minor but they all result in a distinctly unique narrative. The Disney Plus show follows suit, building upon the Marvel Cinematic Universe and playfully rearranging various elements for entertainment.

Each episode in the series presents a unique story, yet they all share a common thread as The Watcher often seeks aid from Captain Carter and various other Multiverse Protectors. These interactions yield impressive outcomes, but viewers have consistently felt that What If…? has barely tapped into its full potential. It’s challenging to disagree with that assessment.

In other words, since season 3 is billed as wrapping up the trilogy, we’ll see more interconnected plots and ongoing stories, which is definitely a positive aspect. However, it might limit the series from taking risks and introducing wildly unpredictable and out-of-this-world elements that it could otherwise have included.

This series would have been enhanced by an entire season dedicated to independent adventure episodes, as while it often follows this format already, the ongoing narrative confines it from exploring more unconventional territories. Shows like What If…?, with boundless potential, seem to fall short when concluded after only three seasons, leaving one with a sense that more could have been achieved.

7 MCU shows that Marvel has cancelled (too soon)

6. She-Hulk: Attorney At Law

She-Hulk: Attorney At Law feels like a refreshing change in the landscape of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, introducing something unique. Unlike other MCU shows such as Loki or The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, which could potentially work as standalone movies, She-Hulk is tailored specifically for TV audiences and it delivers on that promise. The story simply wouldn’t have the same impact if presented in a movie format.

It seems unlikely that Jennifer Walters will appear in another round of adventures. Despite speculation about possible second seasons for various Marvel series, whispers about the cancelation of She-Hulk have also surfaced online. One may wonder why such a highly regarded representation of Marvel TV might face cancellation.

According to Tatiana Maslany herself, Disney might not renew the show due to financial constraints, as producing nine episodes featuring a CGI green Hulk can be quite costly. It’s also been reported that Marvel is becoming more cautious with their investments and focusing on projects that are virtually guaranteed to succeed. Given these factors, it’s speculated that a second season for She-Hulk could be risky because of the high budget requirements.

It’s too bad that She-Hulk, among all the Marvel TV shows launched during this Disney Plus era, seemed to have the potential for a longer run. Given its sitcom structure, it certainly could have continued for many seasons. However, some Marvel Cinematic Universe fans may have expected more substantial content in each episode, which might have affected the audience’s connection to the show as much as Marvel had hoped.

As a gamer, I’m excited that She-Hulk is rumored to reappear before the Multiverse Saga wraps up. However, it seems like her legal comedy series, “She-Hulk: Attorney At Law,” has ended its run a bit sooner than we all had hoped.

7 MCU shows that Marvel has cancelled (too soon)

5. Daredevil

After three captivating seasons on Netflix, Daredevil paved the way for a new wave of superhero shows on streaming platforms and within Marvel’s TV realm. This groundbreaking series even spawned an entire interconnected universe on small screens, giving rise to spin-offs like Jessica Jones, Luke Cage, Iron Fist, The Defenders, and The Punisher. However, its cancellation in 2018 ultimately dismantled this shared universe, leaving fans worldwide still feeling the pain of its premature end.

Among the most disheartening cancellations of Marvel and superhero series ever, this particular show garnered critical acclaim throughout its three-season run and was consistently popular on Netflix. However, despite its success, the streaming giant decided to pull the plug. The reasons behind this decision are speculative but include a possible clash with Disney’s new streaming platform, Disney+, as well as potential cost-related issues.

We’re really looking forward to “Daredevil: Born Again,” but we can’t help but imagine what a fourth season of the original series might have offered. Given how well it was doing, delivering three fantastic, down-to-earth, and captivating seasons, it seemed destined for even greater heights in a potential season 4.

After its termination, the show was initially not recognized as part of the MCU’s main storyline. However, the introduction of Charlie Cox as Daredevil and Vincent D’Onofrio as Wilson “Kingpin” Fisk in the MCU (alongside the debut of Echo) ultimately resulted in the shows being acknowledged as canon by Marvel. We are extremely grateful for this development, as it has paved the way for the upcoming series, Daredevil: Born Again.

7 MCU shows that Marvel has cancelled (too soon)

4. Jessica Jones

You may recall mentioning “Jessica Jones” not too long ago, so let’s take a moment to express our admiration for this intriguing series. It belongs to the Marvel superhero universe shared by Netflix, making it the initial spinoff of “Daredevil.” The show delved deeper into the Defenders-verse, offering a darker, more gritty crime thriller perspective. This captivating series centers around Jessica Jones, a private investigator portrayed by Krysten Ritter, and her tumultuous past with the terrifying Kilgrave.

The show had its highs and lows throughout its run, much like other titles in the Netflix Marvel universe. However, its subsequent seasons saw a noticeable decline in quality, which may have resulted from trying to accommodate more episodes or fitting it into the shared universe. Consequently, its final seasons didn’t quite measure up. Surprisingly, its initial season received tremendous critical praise, with some considering it superior to the much-loved Daredevil series.

Previously, the first three seasons of “Jessica Jones” were seen as exclusive to the Netflix universe. However, it’s now clear that all Netflix series, including “Jessica Jones”, have been integrated into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). So, Jessica Jones is indeed a part of this expanded franchise.

Keeping that thought, it’s appropriate to present her with a new series for streaming on Disney Plus as well.

7 MCU shows that Marvel has cancelled (too soon)

3. The Punisher

Sadly, another title from Netflix’s Marvel collaborative universe was terminated prematurely, with The Punisher being somewhat of an outlier since it wasn’t part of the initial slate. The storyline was developed across four shows, designed to culminate in The Defenders, and then carry on beyond that point. Unlike these other series, however, The Punisher emerged as a standalone spinoff from Daredevil, concentrating on the character of Frank Castle and his vigilante quest for justice against wrongdoers.

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but reminisce about the unforgettable portrayal of The Punisher by Jon Bernthal in Daredevil‘s second season, which later led him back for the standalone series. His performance was nothing short of phenomenal, and it was equally captivating to see Deborah Ann Woll reprise her role as Karen Page in the show. Regrettably, despite running for two seasons, the series seemed to have been cut short prematurely – a feeling that lingered because, truth be told, we weren’t ready for the Marvel Netflix era to conclude just yet.

The good news is that Bernthal is set to reprise his role as The Punisher in Daredevil sequel series Daredevil: Born Again, once again confirming that the events of the Marvel Netflix series take place in the MCU. And now that it has set the stage for his official arrival in the franchise, could this lead to a new series for him, too?

As a dedicated gamer, I can’t help but feel that The Punisher, in all its gritty glory, barely scratched the potential it held. Sadly, its lackluster second season was marred by the end of the franchise it was tied to, leaving us all wanting more. Now is our chance to rectify that error and delve deeper into the dark world of Frank Castle.

7 MCU shows that Marvel has cancelled (too soon)

2. Marvel’s Agents of SHIELD

Let me explain something to you. Although Marvel’s Agents of SHIELD wrapped up after an impressive seven-season run, I firmly believe that a series as entertaining as this one had plenty more untapped potential. It’s also important to note that it was precariously close to cancellation for most of its duration and managed to end just before the Marvel Studios shows on Disney Plus premiered. Could it be mere coincidence? Maybe not.

The TV series “Agents of SHIELD” premiered while the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) was reigning on movie screens, and it sought to explore the small screen as well, airing on ABC – one of television’s largest linear networks. It maintained strong connections with the MCU, featuring characters such as Samuel L. Jackson’s Nick Fury, Cobie Smulders’ Agent Maria Hill, and Hayley Atwell’s Agent Peggy Carter. Unfortunately, it concluded at a time when Marvel Studios chose to expand the MCU through top-tier shows on Disney Plus streaming platform, effectively distancing “SHIELD” from the franchise’s timeline.

In another scenario, the television series “Agents of SHIELD” had the ability to transform swiftly, suggesting it could have continued for a while longer. In an alternate reality, it might have persisted. Although it concluded on its own accord (unlike “Legends of Tomorrow,” which was abruptly terminated mid-cliffhanger), there were still untapped possibilities left unexplored. With ten seasons within reach, it would have been thrilling to witness it attain that benchmark and tie with “Smallville” as the longest-running live-action superhero program.

7 MCU shows that Marvel has cancelled (too soon)

1. Agent Carter

It might seem surprising to assert that the TV series Agent Carter, which is set in the past of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, was actually progressive for its era. However, this statement holds true. The show truly outpaced its contemporary productions and, unfortunately, did not receive the recognition it deserved due to being ahead of its time.

From 2015 to 2016, ABC aired the series “Agent Carter,” lasting for two seasons. The show focused on Peggy Carter’s journey through the SSR, where she demonstrated her worth as an agent in a predominantly male environment. This series took place after the events of “Captain America: The First Avenger” and delved into Peggy’s struggles with Steve Rogers’ death and her subsequent rise to prominence in her field. Essentially, it was an expanded version of the “Agent Carter” one-shot, but it established its own significance by portraying Peggy’s resilience and tenacity, while also offering a gripping spy adventure storyline.

Similar to how Marvel’s Agents of SHIELD and Agent Carter were part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, although not directly produced by Marvel Studios, they significantly enriched the franchise. While a one-shot provides the same storyline in a briefer format, having these series within the universe added depth to Peggy’s narrative and laid the groundwork for her future establishment of SHIELD. It’s unfortunate that Agent Carter was terminated prematurely, as it had the potential to further flesh out Peggy’s story.

Originally, this project aired on network ABC, with plans to feature Hayley Atwell in a more accessible, budget-friendly series set in contemporary times. However, Marvel has yet to provide a satisfying ending for it. In my opinion, a third season would be ideal, airing on Disney Plus streaming service, to finally give the storyline a conclusion that matches its potential.

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2024-09-22 00:01

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