Mind-Blowing Connections Unveiled: Loki's Balder Easter Egg & Doctor Strange 2 Tie-In Revealed by MCU Director!

Warning: SPOILERS lie ahead for Loki season 2, episode 3, "1893"!

Summary

The statue of Balder the Brave in Loki season 2 serves as a reminder to both Loki and the audience of his divine abilities, highlighting that he is more than just a mere TVA agent. Additionally, the statue cleverly defies expectations by replacing Loki with Balder, injecting humor into the scene.

The incorporation of Balder and the mention of the Chicago Worlds Fair in the show emphasizes its aim to acknowledge and criticize oversimplified and discriminatory portrayals of various cultures.

Following the character's exclusion from the Marvel Cinematic Universe sequel, director Kasra Farahani explains the inclusion of Balder the Brave Easter egg in Loki season 2 and its connection to Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. The recent episodes of the show, led by Tom Hiddleston, have been filled with ties to both the larger MCU and comics. Notably, there have been appearances of posters featuring Kumail Nanjiani's Kingo and hints at the upcoming arrival of the X-Men. Episode 3, titled "1893," continued this trend by featuring a set of statues showcasing the Norse gods Odin and Thor, but replacing Loki with Balder the Brave, leading to the mischievous god's disappointment.

Our website had an exclusive conversation with Farahani prior to the episode's premiere, where he discussed the plot reveals and Easter eggs in Loki season 2, episode 3. Regarding the Balder the Brave statue and its relation to Balder's cut appearance in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, the director clarified that there were no direct connections. Instead, the statue was intended to serve as a reminder to Loki of his own power. Farahani explained:

"No, it was not. The purpose behind it is twofold. Firstly, it's a playful joke, as one would expect that with Odin and Thor, there should be a statue of Loki in turn, but there isn't. Secondly, it's an opportunity to emphasize that Loki is more than just an agent of the TVA but also a god, with inherent power derived from his divine lineage. Lastly, I felt it important to address the issue of cultural representation. The midway of the Chicago Worlds Fair historically showcased various cultures, but these representations were often simplistic and sometimes even racist. By having Loki comment that an entire culture cannot be reduced to a diorama, I wanted to acknowledge this aspect."

Balder The Brave's Almost MCU History Explained

Balder the Brave, a character in Marvel Comics, is based on the Norse god of the same name. He is a complex character, often portrayed as a hero despite his inadvertent role in the destruction of Asgard, known as Ragnarök. Balder is the half-brother of Thor and Loki, and their relationship is intricate. He is often manipulated by Loki, and at one point, he exiles Thor from Asgard after Thor kills their reborn grandfather Bor. However, Balder eventually realizes his sibling's malicious intentions and his alliance with Doctor Doom.

Interestingly, Balder almost made his debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) prior to his appearance in Loki season 2, episode 3. It was anticipated that Daniel Craig, known for his role in "Knives Out," would portray Balder in the movie "Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness" in 2022. Concept art revealed a design of Craig's appearance as the character. Craig consistently played down the rumors of his involvement, but Elizabeth Olsen confirmed in mid-2023 that a costume had indeed been created for him. However, the reasons for his eventual removal from the film were not disclosed.

It is uncertain when Balder the Brave will make his official debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe or if Craig will continue to portray the character, despite the recent Easter egg suggesting his existence. Although Craig has denied the rumors, he expressed his enthusiasm and gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the franchise. Given the series' inclination to include fan-favorite cameos, such as Andrew Garfield and Tobey Maguire's return in Spider-Man: No Way Home, there is a strong possibility that Loki season 2 may set the stage for Craig's eventual portrayal of the Norse god.

New episodes of Loki season 2 air Thursdays on Disney+.