Unmasking the Quirk: Revealing the Fascinating Design Behind Blue Beetle's Ted Kord Suit

Summary

Blue Beetle references Ted Kord's legacy and sets up his potential return as a superhero in the future.

The film features Easter eggs, like a vacant mannequin with a pillow, subtly suggesting the presence and unique characteristics of Ted Kord.

Ted Kord has the opportunity to establish himself as a distinct version of Blue Beetle, portraying a more eccentric and peculiar inventor in contrast to Jaime Reyes.

Phillip Boutte, Jr., co-owner of 9B Collective and a concept artist, discusses the inclusion of Ted Kord Easter eggs in the Blue Beetle film and how it presents an opportunity for a unique superhero. While the movie mainly focuses on Jaime Reyes' journey as the new Blue Beetle, it also pays tribute to Ted Kord and Dan Garrett, the previous Blue Beetles. Ted Kord's legacy plays a significant role in the film, with his daughter assisting Jaime and his family, revealing Ted's secret lair, and utilizing his superhero gadgets. The ending of the movie also hints at further development for the character in future installments, should director Gunn decide to explore this intriguing cliffhanger.

During an exclusive interview with Screen Rant about Blue Beetle, Boutte shares a Ted Kord Easter egg that may have eluded some fans. He unveils the reason behind the absence of one of the suits and provides insights into the significance of certain details regarding Ted's heroic exploits. Furthermore, Boutte teases the potential for Ted Kord to distinguish himself as a hero compared to Jaime. Refer to the full quote from Boutte below for more information.

The Easter egg that many people noticed but others missed was the presence of mannequins, one of which was empty. This was intended to signify that Ted Kord had taken it. Additionally, the mannequin had a pillow on it to indicate Ted Kord's weight gain, transitioning from lean to fat. These elements were included to hint at future developments. It is not necessary for him to be portrayed as the typical action hero; he is more of a quirky character.

Editor's Note: This article was crafted amidst the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, and the film discussed in this piece would not have come into existence without the dedicated work of the writers and actors who belong to both unions.

How Ted Kord Can Establish Himself As A Different Kind Of Blue Beetle

Whilst Blue Beetle narrates Jaime Reyes' origin story, it also expertly lays the groundwork for Ted Kord's tale. Despite his prolonged absence, Ted leaves behind his daughter to bravely defend his cherished legacy against the corruption and avarice of her aunts. Believed to be deceased, the movie takes an unexpected turn when a final transmitted message emerges, leaving us pondering: Where could Ted Kord have possibly been hiding all this time?

Gunn possibly offered a perfect explanation for Ted Kord's absence by suggesting that he could be using one of his Blue Beetle suits. In the new DC Universe, Gunn announced a Booster Gold series, where Ted Kord's debut could be featured. It is speculated that Ted Kord may be looking for a way to save his wife through time travel, resulting in his separation from his own time or his unawareness of the passage of time. Blue Beetle has already introduced Ted Kord's sister and daughter, establishing significant differences between the two Blue Beetles. Ted Kord preferred to shield his loved ones from his hero aspirations, while Jaime Reyes' family has been involved from the beginning. The characters' age difference and Ted's lack of powers further contribute to their contrasting personas. Ted Kord could be portrayed as an eccentric inventor aspiring to be a superhero, while Jaime Reyes is a reluctant hero with a kind heart. Their distinct relationships with their families may shape them into different kinds of heroes, particularly if Ted Kord returns and seeks to rebuild his connection with his abandoned daughter.