The End of an Era
The year 2023 marked the end of an era for both the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and the DC Extended Universe (DCEU). It was a year that saw the conclusion of the DCEU and the beginning of James Gunn's new DC Universe with the animated Creature Commandos series. While the DCEU's 2023 movies were not the best-reviewed of the franchise, they featured many exciting and shocking moments, including the deaths of several major characters. On the other hand, the MCU continued to forge ahead without a reboot, but not without its own series of ups and downs. Both universes experienced heartbreaking deaths that left a lasting impact on their respective narratives.
Zachary Levi's Shazam looking scared in Shazam! Fury of the Gods
The year 2023 was a turning point for both the MCU and the DCEU, with significant character deaths reshaping the future of these cinematic universes. Let's take a closer look at the most significant character deaths that occurred in 2023, and how they have influenced the trajectory of these beloved franchises.
The Biggest Deaths in the DCEU
In 2023, the DCEU witnessed the demise of several major characters, each leaving a profound impact on the universe. From the heroic sacrifice of Shazam to the shocking murder of Supergirl, the DCEU experienced a series of tragic losses that reverberated throughout its storytelling. The deaths of these iconic characters not only provided emotional depth to the narrative but also set the stage for the future of the DCEU.
One of the most heartbreaking moments in the DCEU was the death of Shazam, who sacrificed himself after defeating Kalypso, only to be resurrected by Wonder Woman. The loss of Supergirl at the hands of General Zod also left a lasting impression, signaling a shift in the dynamic of the DCEU. Additionally, the sacrifice of young Barry Allen in The Flash added a layer of tragedy to the storyline, further shaping the emotional landscape of the DCEU. These deaths, while devastating, have laid the groundwork for compelling new narratives and character developments within the DCEU.
Tragic Endings in the MCU
The MCU also grappled with significant character deaths in 2023, adding emotional weight to its cinematic landscape. From the demise of MODOK to the sacrifice of Strange Supreme, the MCU experienced a series of heartbreaking losses that reshaped the trajectory of its storytelling. These deaths not only underscored the high stakes of the MCU but also set the stage for new challenges and conflicts for its beloved characters.
One of the most impactful deaths in the MCU was that of MODOK, who met his end as an Avenger after a dramatic confrontation in Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania. The sacrifice of Strange Supreme in What If...? Season 2 also left a profound impact, highlighting the complexities of heroism and the consequences of unchecked power. Furthermore, the apparent demise of Kang the Conqueror in Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania marked a pivotal moment in the MCU, setting the stage for new threats and challenges for its heroes to overcome.
