Marvel confirms a certain well-known character will be making their long-awaited MCU debut before the year is out

The MCU’s 2024 still has a few surprises left in its arsenal. With Agatha All Along now wrapped, fans can look forward to Deadpool & Wolverine hitting Disney Plus this November, bringing back the summer’s most talked-about live-action blockbuster. But the year won’t end there for Marvel enthusiasts, as another round of exciting Marvel TV content is on the way before the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve.

The spotlight is on What If…? Season 3, the latest — and possibly the last — installment in Marvel’s animated anthology series. Known for its unpredictable storytelling, What If…? keeps fans guessing as each episode explores alternate realities from the Sacred Timeline, featuring surprising combinations of heroes and villains. While many episodes draw from existing MCU lore, the series occasionally ventures into uncharted territory, as seen with Season 2’s original character, Kahhori.

Season 3 promises to push boundaries even further. According to head writer Matthew Chauncey, a “well-known” and “long-anticipated” Marvel character will finally make their MCU debut in this season. Chauncey shared this teaser during a panel at Lightbox Expo but kept the identity of the character under wraps. Naturally, fans have been buzzing with theories, ranging from hopeful (like Ghost Rider) to tongue-in-cheek (Z-list villain Big Wheel).

Some speculate it could be Doctor Doom making a surprise appearance before Avengers: Doomsday or The Fantastic Four. Others suspect it might be Blade, despite his animated debut being confirmed for the upcoming Marvel Zombies series in 2025, not What If…?.

Chauncey also hinted at other exciting elements in Season 3, including another original superhero following in Kahhori’s footsteps and a unique episode inspired by 1930s screwball comedies. This particular episode will feature elaborate dance sequences, described as a groundbreaking effort for animation, with Marvel investing heavily to bring it to life.

What If…? Season 3 is set to premiere on Disney Plus on December 22, offering fans one more thrilling journey through the multiverse to close out the year.