Five MCU Projects to Watch Before Echo: A Detailed Guide

Introduction

The release of Echo on Disney+ has generated significant excitement among Marvel fans, especially after the character's intriguing introduction in Phase 4's Hawkeye. To fully appreciate the upcoming Echo series and understand the complexities of its storyline, it is essential to watch five previous Marvel projects. This guide provides a detailed overview of the MCU and Marvel Television projects that are crucial to watch before delving into the world of Echo.

Charlie Cox's Matt Murdock in his Daredevil costume in Netflix's Daredevil

Daredevil: The Devil of Hell's Kitchen

One of the most significant projects to watch before Echo is Marvel Television's Daredevil, which was released on Netflix between 2015 and 2018. The character of Maya Lopez, a.k.a. Echo, has deep connections to Daredevil, making it essential to understand the events of this series. Maya Lopez was introduced as a supporting character to Daredevil in a 1999 Marvel Comics storyline, and her relationship with the masked vigilante holds pivotal importance in the upcoming Echo series. Additionally, Charlie Cox's portrayal of Matt Murdock, a.k.a. Daredevil, is expected to play a crucial role in Echo, as evidenced by recent promotional clips. Understanding the dynamic between Daredevil and Echo is essential to fully grasp the upcoming series.

Kate Bishop and Clint Barton fighting together in Hawkeye finale

Despite the cancelation of the Daredevil series in 2018, Charlie Cox's future in the MCU remained uncertain. However, his return as Matt Murdock in the MCU's Phase 4 and the announcement of his solo Disney+ series, Daredevil: Born Again, indicate his continued relevance in the Marvel universe. The integration of Daredevil into the MCU proper, especially after his appearance in Spider-Man: No Way Home, further emphasizes the importance of revisiting Daredevil's story before delving into Echo.

Maya Lopez in red light in Hawkeye

Hawkeye: Unraveling Maya Lopez's Journey

Hawkeye, the 2021 series, serves as a crucial precursor to Echo, especially in introducing the character of Maya Lopez to the MCU. Alaqua Cox's portrayal of Maya Lopez in Hawkeye laid the foundation for her role in the upcoming Echo series. Maya's complex relationship with Clint Barton and her connection to Wilson Fisk, a.k.a. Kingpin, are central themes that will be explored in Echo. The dramatic events of Hawkeye, including Maya's confrontation with Kingpin and the revelations about her family history, provide essential context for understanding her character in the upcoming series.

Wilson Fisk's Kingpin in Hawaiian shirt in Hawkeye

Furthermore, the introduction of Vincent D'Onofrio's Kingpin in Hawkeye solidifies the interconnectedness of the Marvel Television projects with the MCU proper. The repercussions of Maya's actions in Hawkeye's series finale and the implications for her future journey are anticipated to be integral to the narrative of Echo. Understanding Maya Lopez's transformation from a minor antagonist in Hawkeye to a morally complex character in Echo is crucial to fully appreciate the upcoming series.

Maya Lopez with colorful background in Hawkeye

Spider-Man: No Way Home and She-Hulk: Attorney at Law

The inclusion of Charlie Cox's Matt Murdock in Spider-Man: No Way Home marked a significant moment for the character's future in the MCU. While his role in the film was brief, it raised questions about the canonical status of Netflix's Marvel shows and paved the way for his subsequent appearances in the MCU. Revisiting Spider-Man: No Way Home can provide valuable insights into Daredevil's integration into the larger MCU narrative and set the stage for his involvement in Echo.

Young Maya Lopez with Wilson Fisk in Hawkeye flashback

Additionally, She-Hulk: Attorney at Law featured Daredevil's new MCU costume and hinted at his continued adventures in the Marvel universe. Charlie Cox's cameo appearance as the attorney Matt Murdock, followed by his transformation into Daredevil, offers a glimpse into his evolving role in the MCU's Phase 5. Understanding Daredevil's journey in both Spider-Man: No Way Home and She-Hulk: Attorney at Law is essential to fully comprehend his upcoming storyline in Echo.

Matt Murdock speaking to Peter Parker, Aunt May and Happy Hogan in Spider-Man No Way Home

Marvel's What If...? and Devery Jacobs's Impact

Marvel's What If...? season 2 featured Devery Jacobs, who has been cast in Marvel Studios' Echo in an undisclosed role. Jacobs's previous involvement in the MCU, particularly as the voice of Kahhori in What If...? season 2, provides a unique insight into her dedication to portraying characters with depth and authenticity. The significance of Native American culture and language in Jacobs's performances is expected to be a prominent aspect of her portrayal in Echo, making it valuable to revisit her role in What If...? season 2 before the release of Echo.

Daredevil in yellow and red costume in She-Hulk Attorney at Law