The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is no stranger to changing timelines, and once again, Marvel Studios finds itself reshuffling its Disney+ release schedule. The ongoing strikes by the Writers Guild of America (WGA) and the Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) are having a significant impact on the studio’s plans. Here’s a breakdown of the latest adjustments:
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1. “What If…?” Season 2: A Holiday Treat (December 2023)
Originally slated for an early 2023 premiere, the second season of “What If…?” will now arrive during the holiday season in December. While the exact reasons for the delay remain unspecified, Marvel fans can look forward to more animated adventures in the multiverse.
2. “Echo” Takes Center Stage (January 2024)
“Echo,” the spin-off of 2021’s “Hawkeye,” featuring Alaqua Cox as Marvel’s first Native American and first deaf superhero, has shifted from its initial November 29 release to January 2024. Notably, this series will follow the trend of releasing all episodes at once, a departure from the usual weekly episode format for Marvel Cinematic Universe shows on Disney+.
3. “X-Men ’97” Awaits in Early 2024
Fans eagerly awaiting the return of the beloved animated “X-Men” series from the 1990s will need to exercise patience. Originally set for a fall 2023 release, “X-Men ’97” will now grace screens in early 2024, promising a nostalgic trip back to the mutant-filled world.
4. “Agatha: Darkhold Diaries” in the Fall of 2024
“WandaVision” fans can anticipate the arrival of the spin-off series, now known as “Agatha: Darkhold Diaries,” in the fall of 2024, likely around the Halloween season. Kathryn Hahn reprises her role as the enigmatic and disgraced witch, Agatha Harkness. The show completed filming before the SAG-AFTRA strike, offering a silver lining amid the delays.
The shifting release dates stem from the labor strikes that have impacted several Marvel projects. Notably, “Daredevil: Born Again” and “Wonder Man” were in production limbo due to the strikes, delaying their expected releases. “Ironheart,” a spin-off of 2022’s “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” faces challenges in post-production, and Marvel will reschedule its release when the dust settles from the strikes.
These schedule adjustments align with Disney CEO Bob Iger‘s earlier statement in June. He noted that Marvel’s rapid increase in production output, including eight Disney+ shows in 2021 and 2022, had diluted the studio’s focus and attention. As a result, Marvel is adopting a more measured approach, releasing fewer titles per year.
Despite these setbacks, Marvel fans can still look forward to the upcoming release of “Loki” Season 2, scheduled for October 6, 2023. Tom Hiddleston reprises his iconic role as the mischievous god as he navigates the expanding multiverse.
While delays may be a part of the MCU’s journey, the excitement and anticipation surrounding Marvel’s Disney+ offerings remain unwavering, ensuring that the Marvel magic will continue to captivate audiences around the world.