The Marvel Cinematic Universe is full of feted heroes, yet among these, some heroes are underplayed and possess remarkable skills and take one through compelling journeys. These 17 less-explored superheroes in Yelena Belova to Falcon's unwavering commitment bring richness to the MCU. Often overshadowed by louder voices, they carry struggles within themselves, showcase resistance, and fight for what is right in unique extraordinary ways.
These heroes remind us that it's not superpowers that bring greatness into the MCU but heart, courage, and the will to rise up against everything and anything.
**Disclaimer: This article is based on the writer's perspective.**
1) Ant-Man (Scott Lang) – Ant-Man
Scott Lang is overlooked by many because of his unassuming nature, but going from being a reformed thief to being an important Avenger is quite impressive. In Ant-Man, one gets to see his heart, humor, and resourcefulness in a way that only a few others can offer. The fact that he could take on both personal and cosmic challenges, shows him to be an unexpectedly important character. However unimportant fans may consider Ant-Man to be, his contributions are far from it.
2) Spider-Gwen (Gwen Stacy) – Across the Spider-Verse
It makes the Spider-Gwen in the film Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse as well as the more developed one Across the Spider-Verse appear all different but full of power. Gwen is someone who has a tragic story about her, as well as many dimensions, making her a strong and capable character, but then again, she always stays behind other established Spiderman characters. At her core, she is incredibly brave, emotionally deep, and great at leading. As Spider-Woman, Gwen navigates the struggles of being a teenager and a hero; bringing fresh energy to the Spider-Verse that many fans feel deserves more recognition.
3) Cyclops (Scott Summers) – X-Men (2000)
Cyclops, as played by James Marsden in the X-Men movies, is always relegated to the background of Wolverine. However, he is one of the most significant characters in the X-Men universe. As a leader of the team, Scott Summers is highly resilient and courageous and has made many difficult decisions for the good of all. His laser vision makes him a powerhouse, but it is his emotional depth—handling his burden of leadership and his complicated relationships—that makes him an underrated hero.
4) Black Bolt – Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness
Black Bolt, who has a very brief appearance in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, is one of the most underappreciated heroes in the MCU. His powers—able to destroy entire cities with just his voice—make him a force to be reckoned with. However, his tragic backstory and his inability to control his powers add layers to his character. As an Illuminati member, Black Bolt's silent yet potent presence in the MCU echoes that of his great potential, even though he wasn't there for long. Even with a brief appearance, the fans were hooked, proving the fact that he is extremely underutilized and underestimated within this franchise.
5) The Falcon (Sam Wilson) – Captain America: Civil War
In the film Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Sam Wilson became one of the vital members of the MCU. At first, he started off as an ally of Captain America, but during the Civil War, he displayed himself as a tactician and warrior. As a Falcon, Sam's domination of his flight suit, not to mention his strong commitment to his friends, makes him an indispensable component of the Avengers. For the relatively humble, earthbound compared to other superpower superheroes, Sam is in actuality underrated but an irreplaceable presence in the lineup of heroes of the MCU.
6) Yelena Belova – Black Widow
Yelena Belova, who was in Black Widow, is a very skilled spy with a complex bond with Natasha Romanoff. Initially set as the antagonist, development throughout the film reveals that she is filled with a deep desire for justice and a desire for freedom from the influence of Red Room. Her quick thinking, her sharp combat abilities, and her emotional vulnerabilities make her one of the MCU's most underrated heroes. As she progresses in the MCU, especially in Hawkeye and other appearances, Yelena's heroism and unique perspective will make her a great character.
7) America Chavez – Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness
America Chavez played by Xochitl Gomez in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness is an undervalued hero with a very promising future. Her superpower of crossing dimensions brings some more depth to the tale of the multiverse. At the same time, it is also underworked compared to other characters in the movie. Being forcibly plunged into a world packed with magical creatures, America rises as a worthy character using her courage, compassion, and, above all, this immense responsibility for her power.
8) Wong – Doctor Strange
Wong's role, though underestimated, as mentor and protector in Doctor Strange should not be forgotten because most of the light, focus, and publicity was done only to promote the character of Cumberbatch. Doctor Strange draws very little attention and spotlight, towards Wong, for his mastery of mystical arts, composure when pressures call for calm, and loyalty both to Ancient One and Strange. Wong is another character whose importance is shown through the leadership he gives to both Avengers: Infinity War as well as guidance given to Strange and others.
9) Red Guardian (Alexei Shostakov) – Black Widow
Red Guardian is a unique character in the movie Black Widow, portrayed by David Harbour. His past as a Soviet supersoldier gives a view into a complex and intriguing world. What makes him a valuable asset is his strength and combat skills, but the emotional vulnerability of longing for a family adds depth to his character. Although Red Guardian is introduced with comedic elements in Black Widow, his actions reveal a hero who has lived through tremendous trauma. Underserved potential as a hero of the MCU leaves room for further exploration, especially because he is tied to Black Widow.
10) The Human Torch (Johnny Storm) – Deadpool 2 and X-Men Origins: Wolverine
Johnny Storm is another underestimated hero who, while with Chris Evans in Fantastic Four films, never did his good work justice. Johnny was a hot-headed character who was charismatic with a command over fire and can also fly; however, it's seen that his character wasn't very well highlighted despite those magnificent powers. Mixed film reviews would not do justice to this boy, but his charm is really worth it along with a role in the team. His fast-paced, fiery personality adds a unique touch to the superhero genre, and if explored more deeply, Johnny Storm could emerge as a fan-favorite in the MCU.
11) Drax the Destroyer – Guardians of the Galaxy
Much beyond being a comedy relief within a series of action and superheroes as depicted in Guardians of the Galaxy, Drax possesses an intricate tragic background where loss haunts him, and the unstoppable pursuit to take revenge infuses some emotionality to him, which gives more depth even in the otherwise humorous jokes of the actor. Drax's combat style, coupled with his emotional journey, portrays an unappreciated protector of the universe. He does not seem to be one of the obvious heroes; however, he plays an important role in the overall success of the Guardians.
12) She-Hulk (Jennifer Walters) – She-Hulk: Attorney at Law
Jennifer Walters is the cousin of Bruce Banner and transforms into She-Hulk with a humorous, intelligent, and powerful style. She is a career attorney who must balance that role with her new life as She-Hulk. The show She-Hulk: Attorney at Law, presents her in a relatable and funny fashion, but she also is responsible for being a hero. She also discovers the world of law and superhero responsibilities that add to her dimensions, making her an underutilized but very refreshing and relevant hero in the MCU.
13) Captain Carter (Peggy Carter) – What If...?
In What If.?, Peggy Carter is Captain America in a fresh take on this most iconic role. Her power, leadership, and strong will to fight for what's right is a reflection of what made Steve Rogers. He is Captain Carter's representation of what could have been and provides an interesting peephole into what might have happened if Peggy had taken the shield.
Making her an underrated but important hero in the multiverse, and showing that being Captain America is not dependent on gender, but depends on the right heart and will.
14) Skaar – She-Hulk
Skaar, who was introduced in She-Hulk, is the son of Hulk. He has inherited his father's strength and a fighting mentality. Though he made an appearance in the show for a short period of time, Skaar certainly has the potential to become a hero. His different bond with Bruce Banner will make him an interesting character, and his powers are quite potent. As he traverses the intricate plot of his ethnicity, Skaar's tale may be even more extensive, and thus an often-overlooked hero with a lot to become in the future storyline.
15) Mantis – Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2
Mantis has empathic power, and she gets a feel of emotions and, hence, her manipulation capabilities, making her an indispensable part of Guardians. Her comedy of mistakes or naivety on the one hand but her personal growing ability to relate to members of her team makes way for this otherwise unappreciated form of heroism. When Mantis becomes Ego's servant but eventually turns into a trustworthy ally among the Guardians, there is her great potential as a highly heroic character. Mantis has unique powers and can feel how people feel, which would make her an underrated but highly essential hero in the MCU that needs more focus on her storylines.
16) Moon Knight (Marc Spector) – Moon Knight
Marc Spector, aka Moon Knight, gives a dark, psychological take on the superhero genre. He has dissociative identity disorder and his various personalities are complex and unpredictable. In connection to the Egyptian god Khonshu, he gains great powers. His story is about inner turmoil and self-discovery. The gritty nature of this show will give the MCU a new perspective from Marc Spector, where one can find heroism besides personal struggle. Despite the erratically quirky nature, resilience and a willingness to fight for justice make him an underrated hero in the MCU's growing roster.
17) Sentry (Robert Reynolds) – Thunderbolts
Trending
Sentry is one of the most powerful heroes in the Marvel universe, and because of his troubled past and the unstable nature of his powers, he is sometimes overlooked. This hero, whose inner conflict is with his dark alter ego, the Void, who has powers equivalent to those of Superman, promises a tragic dimension that would highlight his heroism despite the mental and emotional struggles that hold him back. Thanks to the strength of his ability, The Sentry is an incredibly powerful hero. However, it's his vulnerability and complexity that gives him an underrated storyline as part of the MCU.
Reply
