The Return of Thanos: A Multiverse Marvel in What If...? Season 2

The Third Return of Thanos in What If...? Season 2

Marvel's What If...? Season 2 is set to captivate audiences with the return of a fan-favorite character, the iconic villain Thanos. This marks his third appearance in the MCU after his demise, and it's a testament to the series' exploration of the multiverse's boundless potential. Thanos' recurring presence in the animated anthology series showcases the creative and imaginative ways characters can be brought back from the dead, offering fans a compelling and thrilling viewing experience.

Thanos (Josh Brolin) waiting for the Infinity Gauntlet in Avengers Endgame

Five years ago, Thanos emerged as a formidable and unforgettable character, resonating with audiences through his incredible power and indomitable strength. Even in death, his legacy and the far-reaching consequences of his actions continued to shape the narrative of the entire universe, solidifying his place as one of the most influential figures in the franchise. It comes as no surprise that a character of such magnitude would be resurrected through the powers of the multiverse, underscoring his enduring impact on the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

What If Season 2 Avengers and Peggy Carter in 1988

The Legacy of Thanos: From Endgame to What If...?

Thanos' return in What If...? Season 2 marks his third appearance in the MCU following his initial demise. His first death occurred at the outset of Avengers: Endgame, as a vengeful Thor severed Thanos' head after discovering the destruction of the Infinity Stones. While this marked the end of the Earth 616 version of Thanos, an alternate iteration of the villain emerged to thwart the Avengers' plans, setting the stage for a new chapter in Thanos' complex and compelling narrative.

Subsequently, Thanos made a surprising reappearance in the first season of What If...? in an alternate reality where T'Challa assumed the mantle of Star-Lord. This reformed version of Thanos allied with the Ravagers, transforming the trajectory of the characters and presenting a fresh perspective on the iconic villain. Now, as he prepares to make his third return in Season 2, the trailer teases a gripping showdown between Thanos and a hero, setting the stage for a thrilling and unpredictable encounter.

The Perfect Platform for Resurrecting MCU Characters

What If...? presents a unique and unparalleled opportunity to revisit deceased characters within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. While live-action projects have explored the return of characters since Endgame, the animated anthology series delves into uncharted territory, delving into high-stakes scenarios and exploring the limitless potential of alternate realities. Its animated format allows for the seamless exploration of grand and imaginative premises, such as confronting a zombie apocalypse or witnessing Ultron's domination of Earth, scenarios that would be challenging to execute in live action.

Moreover, the characters depicted in What If...? are variants of their Earth 616 counterparts, ensuring that the narrative continuity of the primary universe remains undisturbed. This approach provides fans with a comforting and enriching experience, offering closure while showcasing the diverse paths and possibilities that the characters could have pursued. Additionally, the animated nature of the series allows for timeless depictions of characters, enabling the MCU to continue exploring alternate realities long after the retirement or passing of live-action actors, opening the door to exciting and innovative storytelling opportunities.