15 Netflix villains have been canonized by Marvel into the MCU

Marvel Studios has made a groundbreaking move by officially canonizing 15 Netflix villains into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). For years, fans have debated whether characters from shows like Daredevil, Jessica Jones, Iron Fist, and The Punisher were part of the MCU. Now, with the inclusion of these series in the official MCU “Timeline Order,” the debate has been settled.

Details of 15 Netflix villains:

Let’s delve into the details of these newly canonized 15 Netflix villains

Kingpin (Wilson Fisk):

Wilson Fisk, also known as Kingpin, is a formidable supervillain in the Marvel Universe. His criminal empire casts a long shadow over New York City, and he is one of the most feared and powerful crime lords. Let’s delve into the details:

Origin:

Wilson Grant Fisk, the man behind the Kingpin persona, first appeared in The Amazing Spider-Man #50 (cover-dated July 1967). His name, “Kingpin,” is a nod to the crime lord title in Mafia slang.

Appearance:

The Kingpin is unmistakable—a massive figure with an extraordinarily heavyset appearance, bald head, and a blend of obesity and formidable muscle. His signature attire includes a white suit jacket and a cane.

Adversaries:

Initially an adversary of Spider-Man, the Kingpin later became the archenemy of Daredevil. He also clashed with the Punisher and Echo, his adoptive daughter.

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Vincent D’Onofrio portrays Wilson Fisk in the Netflix series Daredevil and the Disney+ miniseries Hawkeye and Echo.

Michael Clarke Duncan portrayed the Kingpin in the 2003 film Daredevil and voiced him in Spider-Man: The New Animated Series.

The Hand

The Hand, a formidable and ancient organization, has been a recurring threat in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) across several Netflix series. Let’s delve into their shadowy history:

Origin and Immortality:

Through the material of dragon bones, The Hand found the East Asian key to eternal life. This mystical substance allowed their leaders to live for centuries, growing their power bases. Their ultimate mission is to locate and retrieve the enigmatic weapon known as the “Black Sky” and use it to return home to K’un-Lun.

Adversaries and Guardians:

The Order of the Crane Mother trained warriors in K’un-Lun to defend against the Hand. They chose an individual known as the “Iron Fist”, a warrior with the power to channel their Chi into an unbreakable weapon, to guard the gate into the city whenever it opened every 15 years.

The Chaste, led by a scarred man named Stone, also fought against the Hand. Stick, an enemy of the Hand, shared a story about a boy who survived their wrath in ancient times and grew up to recruit more people to fight against them.

Elektra Natchios, initially tempted by the Hand, ultimately refused to join them after Daredevil’s intervention. Nobu, a Hand leader, accidentally killed Elektra during a brawl and was later decapitated by Stick.

Bakuto and Brainwashing:

Bakuto and his faction trained recruits, often children with troubled backgrounds, at the Hand Safe Haven in the countryside. He gifted Colleen Wing her own dojo to train more Hand soldiers.

While Bakuto’s goals seemed benevolent at first, he secretly brainwashed his students into obedience. Even after leaving the Hand Safe Haven, these students remained loyal to the Hand, granting Bakuto influence over various sectors.

In summary, the Hand’s legacy spans centuries, immortality, and clandestine battles against worthy adversaries. Their presence continues to haunt the MCU, leaving a trail of mystery and danger in their wake 23.

Benjamin Poindexter/Bullseye

Wilson Bethel debuted on Daredevil in Season 3, as Benjamin Poindexter, an assassin for Wilson Fisk who served in the U.S. Army, was a former FBI agent, and was entrusted with posing as Daredevil to turn the public against the character.

Poindexter ultimately faced loss and paralysis during a battle with Daredevil and Kingpin. Following surgery, fans were left with a hint that he would eventually transform into the renowned villain Bullseye during an MCU visit.

Kevin Thompson/Kilgrave

Kevin Thompson, a fictional sociopath and a prominent enemy in the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s television continuity, goes by his chosen code name, “Kilgrave.” He played a central villain in the first season of the Netflix streaming video series Jessica Jones, portrayed by actor David Tennant. Kilgrave possesses a chilling ability: he can control people’s minds at will. Let’s delve into his intriguing backstory:

Torturous Childhood:

Kevin Thompson was born with a deadly brain illness caused by a genetic disorder. His condition would have rendered him brain-dead by the age of 10.

His parents, Albert and Louise Thompson, subjected him to relentless testing and painful procedures in their desperate attempts to find a cure. These experiences left Kevin with deep resentment toward his parents, who neglected him emotionally while focusing solely on their scientific work.

Unbeknownst to Kevin, these traumatic experiences triggered a latent ability within him.

Mind Control Abilities Unleashed:

As Kevin grew older, he discovered his newfound power: the ability to control people’s wills. With ease, he could make them do his bidding.

His parents unwittingly became his first victims, forced to obey his every command. Kevin’s lack of empathy for human suffering grew as he focused solely on his own desires and pleasure.

At the tender age of 10, he even compelled his mother to scar her own face with an iron, leaving her permanently disfigured.

Becoming Kilgrave:

Assuming the name Kilgrave, Kevin began using his mind control powers for personal gain. He developed a cruel nature, manipulating people to serve his whims.

His obsession with Jessica Jones, a private investigator, led to dark and twisted events. Kilgrave kept her as his personal sex slave for several months, fascinated by her ability to resist his thrall.

Kilgrave’s quest for a loving future with Jessica crumbled when she betrayed him by attempting to have him arrested. Enraged, he sought to enhance his powers and ultimately met his demise at Jessica’s hands.

Trish Walker/Hellcat

Trish Walker, also known as Hellcat, is a multifaceted character in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Let’s delve into her intriguing journey:

Background and Transformation:

Patricia “Trish” Walker was a former child TV star and model who later became a successful radio talk show host.

She is the adoptive sister of Jessica Jones, the titular character in the Marvel Netflix series “Marvel’s Jessica Jones.”

Trish’s troubled past, including abuse and drug addiction, shaped her into a resilient individual.

Envious of Jessica’s superhuman abilities, Trish sought her own power.

Becoming Hellcat:

After the death of her boyfriend, Will Simpson (who had taken a dangerous drug called “Combat Enhancers”), Trish turned to the same drug to feel empowered.

When the inhaler stopped working, she underwent an experimental surgery performed by Dr. Malus. Despite the risks, the surgery granted her abilities.

Trish became the vigilante Hellcat, using her newfound powers to assist Jessica Jones in tracking down villains.

Downfall and Dark Path:

Unfortunately, Trish lost her way and became a killer herself.

Jessica Jones had to stop her, and Trish was arrested and imprisoned.

Her journey from child star to vigilante showcases the complexities of her character and her desire for justice.

Comic Book Origins:

In Marvel Comics, Trish Walker debuted in 1944 as Patsy Walker.

She eventually became the superhero Hellcat, joining teams like the Avengers and the Defenders.

Trish Walker’s transformation from child star to vigilante adds depth to the MCU, and her alter ego, Hellcat, leaves a lasting impact on Jessica Jones’ world.

Cornell Bertram Stokes/Cottonmouth

Cornell “Cottonmouth” Stokes, portrayed by Mahershala Ali, is a multifaceted character in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Let’s explore his intriguing journey:

Background and Criminal Empire:

Cottonmouth, whose real name is Cornell Bertram Stokes, is a well-known criminal in Harlem.

He is the owner of Harlem’s Paradise, a swanky nightclub in New York City, and the leader of the Stokes Crime Family.

His criminal lifestyle revolves around power, wealth, and control over Harlem’s underworld.

Failed Weapons Deal and Vendetta:

Cottonmouth’s empire begins to unravel due to a failed weapons sale.

Driven by vengeance, he hunts down all those responsible for the deal’s collapse.

His path crosses with Luke Cage, a man seeking justice for his friend’s death.

Clash with Luke Cage:

When three young men from Harlem steal money from one of Cottonmouth’s weapons deals, he becomes relentless in his pursuit.

Tragically, during this hunt, Cottonmouth’s henchmen accidentally kill Pop, a respected figure in Harlem.

Luke Cage, determined to avenge Pop, sets out to dismantle Cottonmouth’s criminal operation.

Complexity and Tragedy:

Cottonmouth’s character is layered—part mob boss, part musician, and part ruthless crime lord.

His nickname, “Cottonmouth,” reflects his venomous nature and cunning.

The clash between Cottonmouth and Luke Cage reveals the tragic consequences of power and ambition.

Mariah Dillard/Black Mariah

Cornell Bertram Stokes, also known as Cottonmouth, is a supervillain who appears in American comic books published by Marvel Comics. He first appeared in Luke Cage, Power Man #18 (June 1974) and was created by Len Wein and George Tuska1. In the Marvel Cinematic Universe television series Luke Cage, the character was portrayed by Mahershala Ali in the first season.

Here’s a brief overview of Cottonmouth’s background and role:

Origin and Criminal Lifestyle:

Cornell Stokes, also known as Cottonmouth, started out as a drug kingpin in New York City. He took part in the incidents that gave Luke Cage his superpowers and made him become “Power Man.” Cage eventually beat Cottonmouth in his effort to enlist him in his organization and turned him over to the police.

Harlem’s Paradise:

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Cottonmouth is the owner of Harlem’s Paradise, a nightclub in New York City. He is a powerful mob boss and the leader of the Stokes Crime Family based in Harlem. His criminal lifestyle begins to unravel due to a failed weapons sale, leading him to track down those responsible and confront Luke Cage.

Abilities:

Cottonmouth possesses superhuman strength and durability. His criminal activities and clashes with superheroes make him a formidable antagonist in the Marvel universe.

Hernán Enrique Salazar Álvarez/Shades

Hernán Enrique Salazar Álvarez, also known as Shades, is a character from the Netflix series Marvel’s Luke Cage. He serves as the secondary antagonist in the show, and his portrayal by actor Theo Rossi left a lasting impression on viewers.

In the gritty streets of Harlem, Shades operates as a henchman for the notorious crime lord Diamondback. Let’s delve into the shades of this intriguing character:

Background and Allegiances:

Shades starts as an associate of Diamondback, tasked with overseeing operations under the watchful eye of Cottonmouth, another powerful gangster in Harlem.

When Cottonmouth faces betrayal within his ranks, Diamondback sends Shades to clean up the mess. Shades’s loyalty lies with Diamondback, and he operates in the shadows, manipulating events to serve his boss’s interests.

Complex Motivations:

Shades is not a one-dimensional villain. His motivations are layered, and his actions are driven by a mix of survival, ambition, and loyalty.

His relationship with Diamondback is both professional and personal, hinting at a deeper backstory that unfolds over the course of the series.

Cool and Calculated:

Theo Rossi’s portrayal brings out Shades’s cool demeanor. He rarely loses his composure, even in high-stakes situations.

His signature sunglasses become a symbol of his enigmatic persona. Behind those shades, he conceals secrets and a steely resolve.

Willis Harold Stryker/Diamondback

Willis Harold Stryker, also known as Diamondback, is a multifaceted character who weaves a web of intrigue and vengeance in the Netflix series Marvel’s Luke Cage. Let’s delve into the facets of this formidable villain:

Background and Origins:

Willis Stryker grew up alongside Carl Lucas, the son of respected reverend James Lucas. Despite their differences, they became best friends.

Stryker’s animosity stemmed from being the illegitimate child, and denied the Lucas name, while Carl was revered as the supposed firstborn.

When both committed a crime, Carl was forced to join the army, while Stryker was sent to prison. This injustice fueled Stryker’s hatred and jealousy.

Becoming Diamondback:

Stryker’s transformation into Diamondback began with his criminal career. He mastered knives, including specially gimmicked ones that exploded, released toxic gases, or created sonic waves.

His vendetta against Carl intensified when he discovered that Carl, now Luke Cage, had returned from Seagate Prison with superpowers.

Sibling Rivalry and Betrayal:

The revelation that Luke Cage was his half-brother shattered Stryker. He tormented Misty Knight, who was close to Cage, keeping her alive for further torture.

Diamondback’s battle suit granted him superhuman strength. He relentlessly hunted down Cage, becoming his arch-nemesis.

Harlem Showdown:

In a public Harlem showdown, Diamondback faced Cage. Their conflict unfolded with intensity, fueled by years of resentment and secrets.

Diamondback’s ties to Hammer Industries allowed him to take control of Cottonmouth’s criminal empire after Cottonmouth’s demise.

John McIver/Bushmaster

John McIver, also known as Bushmaster, is a charismatic and formidable character who left an indelible mark in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) through the second season of Netflix’s Luke Cage. Let’s explore the layers of this intriguing villain:

Origins and Rise:

Born into poverty on Saint Croix in the Caribbean Sea, John McIver and his younger brother Quincy survived by stealing. John possessed a violent temper, which led to a deadly incident during a robbery.

Rising through the criminal ranks, he became a powerful crime boss, financier, and organizer. His name echoed through the underworld as Bushmaster.

Feud with Misty Knight:

Bushmaster’s real vendetta wasn’t against Luke Cage, but rather against Misty Knight. Misty infiltrated the Maggia’s activities, disrupting the Bushmaster’s plans.

Their intense rivalry escalated, with Bushmaster kidnapping people close to Misty, including Claire Temple, to force her friends (including Luke Cage) to reveal her whereabouts.

Power Master:

In a twist of fate, Bushmaster underwent an experimental procedure similar to the one that transformed Luke Cage into Power Man. However, it backfired.

Instead of gaining impenetrable skin, Bushmaster’s body slowly turned into solid, immobile metal. His end came when his body shattered, leaving only his skeleton behind.

Harold Meachum, portrayed by David Wenham, is a formidable antagonist in the Marvel TV series “Iron Fist”. As a ruthless businessman, he stops at nothing to achieve his goals. Harold Meachum is the one who turned Danny Rand into Iron Fist in Marvel Comics.

In the show, Harold was the former Co-Founder and CEO of Rand Enterprises. He orchestrated the deaths of Wendell and Helen Rand, only to later succumb to cancer. However, The Hand resurrected him, binding him to their service. His penthouse confinement in New York City led him to seek a way to eliminate The Hand, which he found in Danny Rand, the surviving son of Wendell and Helen. Danny returned to New York as the Iron Fist, and Harold’s complex machinations unfolded.

Harold Meachum’s character is marked by manipulation, resurrection, and a dark past. His actions reverberate throughout the series, making him a memorable and multifaceted villain.

Harold Meachum

Iron Fist’s father Wendell Rand cofounded Rand Enterprises with Harold Meachum, a creation of David Wenham. However, in the end, his avarice drove him to collaborate with the Hand to have the Rands killed and then to resurrect him following his cancerous death.

Meachum carried on operating Rand Enterprises clandestinely through his son Ward until, at some point, he engaged in combat with Danny Rand, also known as Iron Fist, and was ultimately assassinated by his son Ward in the ensuing struggle.

Davos/Steel Serpent

Davos, also known as the Steel Serpent, is a compelling antagonist in the Marvel TV series “Iron Fist”. Portrayed by Sacha Dhawan, Davos is a character with a rich and complex backstory.

Here’s what you need to know about the formidable Steel Serpent:

Origin and Background:

Davos hails from the heavenly city of K’un-L’un and is the son of Lei Kung the Thunderer.

He was one of the final contenders for the Iron Fist power, but he suffered defeat at the hands of Wendell Rand, the adopted son of K’un-L’un’s ruler.

Accusing Tuan (K’un-L’un’s ruler) of favoritism, Davos left the city without permission and confronted the dragon Shou-Lao. His failure led to disgrace and exile to Earth.

Twenty years later, Danny Rand (Wendell’s son) became the Iron Fist, and Davos tracked him down in New York. He stole Danny’s power, leading to a bitter rivalry.

Powers and Abilities:

Davos is an exceptional martial artist, trained in K’un-L’un’s renowned fighting techniques.

His hand-to-hand combat skills rival even those of Iron Fist.

Davos can use his distinctive serpent tattoo to drain the chi (life energy) of opponents, making himself stronger.

He has momentarily appropriated Iron Fist’s strength and is surviving off the life energy of Crane`s Mother’s daughters.

After rechristening himself as the “Steel Phoenix,” Davos mastered his chi to the point of regrowing a severed limb using pure energy.

Mary Walker/Typhoid Mary

Mary Walker, also known as Typhoid Mary, is a compelling antagonist in the Marvel TV series “Iron Fist”. Portrayed by Alice Eve, Mary Walker’s character is both intriguing and dangerous.

Here’s what you need to know about the formidable Typhoid Mary:

Origin and Background:

Mary Walker, referred to only by her real name, is a complex character with multiple personalities.

She has a docile persona named Mary and a ferocious one that goes by Walker.

Her mind is fractured due to a lifetime of abuse and trauma, resulting in dissociative identity disorder.

When she transforms into her alternate personas, she switches from an ordinary civilian to a super-powered killer.

Mary’s fighting skills and psionic powers have made her a thorn in the side of heroes like Daredevil, Spider-Man, and Deadpool.

Villains like Kingpin have exploited her fragile mind for their own purposes.

Powers and Abilities:

Mutant Mary Walker possesses telekinetic and psychic powers at a low degree.

Her telekinesis allows her to levitate and hurl small objects like projectiles.

She has the ability to ingrain ideas into other people’s thoughts.

Mary possesses a pyrokinetic ability, enabling her to spontaneously set people and objects on fire.

Even without her mutant powers, she is a proficient martial artist and marksman.

Interestingly, her mutant abilities don’t manifest in her standard Mary Walker personality; they emerge when she transforms into Typhoid Mary or Bloody Mary, with the latter being even more powerful.

John Pilgrim

John Pilgrim, portrayed by Josh Stewart, is a complex antagonist in The Punisher Season 2. His character is shrouded in mystery, and his faith adds a unique religious fervor to the series.

Here’s what we know about John Pilgrim:

Background:

He is a man who has “left behind a life of violence” but is ultimately forced to use his old skills1. His past is murky, and he grapples with the sins he committed under another name.

Faith and Fundamentalism:

John Pilgrim is a Christian fundamentalist with a deep-seated rage and a propensity for violence. His faith can easily tip into unhealthy extremism. He adheres strictly to his beliefs, viewing them as absolute truths. His past experiences have shaped him, and he walks a fine line between devotion and addiction.

Religious Depictions:

Unlike Frank Castle (The Punisher), whose Catholicism is guilt-ridden, Pilgrim’s belief system is more overtly religious. His faith becomes a significant point of contrast between him and the anti-hero. Both share a knack for killing, which inevitably pits them against each other.

Manipulation and Murders: Pilgrim’s journey involves redemption, manipulation, and a series of murders. He was once an assassin for the white supremacist group, the Aryan Brotherhood. After finding religion, he attempts to rebuild his life, only to be manipulated into committing heinous acts by Anderson and Eliza Schultz.

In the dark and gritty world of The Punisher, John Pilgrim’s character adds layers of complexity and moral ambiguity. His path intersects with Frank Castle’s, leading to intense confrontations and moral dilemmas.

William Russo/Jigsaw

Lieutenant William “Billy” Russo, also known as Jigsaw, is the main antagonist in the Netflix series Marvel’s The Punisher. He was once the best friend and squad mate of Frank Castle during their time in the U.S. Special Forces. Russo later leads Anvil, a private military contractor in New York City. However, their friendship takes a dark turn when Billy betrays Frank during an operation called Cerberus, leading to Frank’s family’s tragic demise and setting him on the path to becoming the vigilante known as Punisher. As a result, Billy becomes one of Castle’s primary targets.

After recovering from injuries sustained during his fight with Castle, Billy forms his gang, earning the nickname “Jigsaw”. He becomes the archenemy of both Castle and Dinah Madani. Billy Russo is portrayed by Ben Barnes, who has also played Dorian Gray in The Picture of Dorian Gray and the Darkling in Shadow and Bone.

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Jigsaw’s disfigurement and transformation occur after a confrontation with Frank Castle. Seeking revenge, Jigsaw assembles a Punisher Task Force to eliminate Castle. The intense rivalry between these two characters fuels the tension throughout the series, making Jigsaw a memorable and complex villain.

Disney+ is now offering streaming content for Daredevil, Jessica Jones, Luke Cage, Iron Fist, The Defenders, and The Punisher.