Robert Downey Jr.’s return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) took many by surprise, but it’s worth noting that the franchise has a history of bizarre character reintroductions. As one of the most expansive and innovative shared universes in cinema history, the MCU has not only redefined how comic book stories are adapted for the screen but also introduced an array of iconic characters. With each new film, familiar faces make comebacks in unexpected and often eccentric ways, ranging from heroic reappearances to bizarre comedic turns.
With the ongoing influx of new characters, the re-emergence of beloved figures is consistently a hot topic among fans. Yet, the unconventional methods by which certain characters return have sparked both intrigue and laughter. In this article, we’ll explore the eight strangest returns of Marvel characters within the MCU, which have left audiences both amused and puzzled.
8. Moon Knight Became A Mech-Avenger
What If…?, Season 3, Episode 1, “What If… the Hulk Fought the Mech Avengers?”
Making his debut in the Disney+ series, Moon Knight vanished from subsequent MCU projects after his initial appearance. Following a promising conclusion to his storyline, fans expected a more thorough follow-up. Instead, he resurfaced in the animated series What If…? as a member of the Mech Avengers. This unexpected transformation into a Multiverse variant was surprising, showcasing the franchise’s creativity while reassuring fans that Moon Knight had not been forgotten.
7. Peggy Carter Returned As A Super Soldier
Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022)
Peggy Carter, a cornerstone of the MCU and integral to Captain America’s narrative, saw limited appearances after her role in 2011’s Captain America: The First Avenger. Initially thought to be sidelined for good following the climax of Steve Rogers’ journey, Peggy reappeared in the Multiverse Saga, emerging as Captain Carter, gifted with super-soldier abilities. This fresh interpretation of her character ensured her legacy continued within the franchise, albeit in an unexpected manner.
6. Trevor Slattery Returned After Years of Imprisonment
Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021)
Trevor Slattery, introduced in Iron Man 3 as the faux Mandarin, did not receive an immediate follow-up until his return in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. Initially perceived as a controversial twist, Slattery’s reappearance brought a comedic element that contrasted with the film’s darker themes. His return might not have seemed anticipated, but it ultimately provided a humorous bridge between two contrasting interpretations of his character.
5. Thanos Returned As A Cosmic Bartender
What If…?, Season 1, Episode 2, “What If… T’Challa Became a Star-Lord?”
Once the fearsome villain of the Infinity Saga, Thanos faced his demise in Avengers: Endgame. Yet, he made a peculiar return as a cosmic bartender in the What If…? series, showcasing a vastly different persona shaped by a Multiversal interaction with T’Challa. This unexpected twist on Thanos’ character was both humorous and collaborative, illustrating how the Multiverse can alter destinies.
4. Abomination Returned As A Hippy
She-Hulk: Attorney at Law (2022)
The Abomination, introduced as a villain in The Incredible Hulk, was largely forgotten until his surprising reemergence in She-Hulk: Attorney at Law. Remarkably transformed from a rage-fueled antagonist to a reformed character, his role as a hippy establishing an anger management group was both comedic and unexpected, showcasing both the character’s and actor’s evolution within the franchise.
3. Chris Evans Came Back As A Sh*t-Talking Johnny Storm
Deadpool & Wolverine (2024)
Chris Evans is synonymous with Captain America, yet fans were reminded of his earlier role as Johnny Storm in the upcoming Deadpool & Wolverine. Instead of returning as the heroic Rogers, he hilariously reprised his role as the wisecracking Human Torch. This unexpected duality provided a unique comedic twist and affirmed Evans’ versatile talent in the MCU.
2. Liv Tyler Returned For… Very Little Reason
Captain America: Brave New World (2025)
After her role in The Incredible Hulk, Liv Tyler’s Betty Ross became one of the more conspicuously absent characters. Her rumored return in Captain America: Brave New World generated anticipation, yet her brief cameo left fans disappointed, as she played no significant role in the narrative, underscoring the challenges of reviving characters without a substantial storyline.
1. Corey Stoll’s MODOK Still Defies Belief
Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania (2023)
Corey Stoll’s transformation from Darren Cross in Ant-Man to MODOK in Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania marked one of the most peculiar narratives in the MCU. While fans anticipated Cross’s return, the transformation into a bizarre villain created a surreal and unexpected narrative twist, highlighting the unpredictable storytelling that has become a hallmark of the franchise.