The next big Marvel project set for Disney Plus is taking the MCU back to space with Richard Rider, better known as the superhero Nova, at long last joining the blockbuster franchise.
As reported by Deadline, details of whether the Nova project will be a limited series or a feature film are yet unknown, however, it is being made specifically for Disney Plus. Going off Marvel's recent history, it would seem more likely to be a six-part series, though that's purely speculation.
What has been confirmed is that it will be written by Moon Knight scribe Sabir Pirzada with Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige producing, as always. Created in 1976, Richard Rider is a regular teenager who is gifted superhuman powers by Rhomann Dey, the last surviving member of the intergalactic police force known as the Nova Corps.
Marvel often likes to introduce or hint at upcoming characters in shows and movies ahead of time, whether that be referenced directly, subtle hints in the backdrop or a cameo via a post-credits scene. So, what about Nova? Where could Richard Rider first appear in the MCU?
The most obvious is Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. Filming is currently underway and would be the perfect opportunity to either introduce the character, or more likely hint at Rider's appearance in some way.
Why Guardians? The Guardians have been most associated with the planet Xandar – remember the planet with Glenn Close and John C. Reilly – although, it was destroyed by Thanos at the beginning of Avengers: Infinity War (something we never saw onscreen). The destruction of the planet fits in perfectly with the original comicbook run too. Guardians Vol. 3 is not due until May 5th, 2023 so this feels like a real possibility.
Nova is also known for team-ups with Spider-Man and Thor. With Sony still having complete control over Spider-Man and the character being Earth-based (for the most part), this seems less likely. Thor, on the other hand, is a possibility with Thor: Love and Thunder due out in July this year. While an appearance from the character is clearly out of the question (no casting news as of yet), would it be impossible for Marvel to sneak in a reference? Either way, we'll just have to wait and see what happens.
Sign up to the T3 newsletter for smarter living straight to your inbox
Get all the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products from the T3 experts
Interestingly, director Joe Russo previously stated (via Wired) that Richard Rider was present during the final battle in Avengers: Endgame before having to walk his comments back. Obviously, Feige and co. must have had bigger plans for Nova.
The next MCU project on Disney Plus will be Moon Knight starring Oscar Isaac on March 30th. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness with Benedict Cumberbatch reprising his role as the Sorcerer Supreme is then the next film to hit theatres on May 6th, 2022.
Matt is a freelance writer for T3, covering news and keeping up with everything games, entertainment, and all manner of tech. You can find his work across numerous sites across the web, including TechRadar, IGN, GamesRadar, Tom's Guide, Fandom, NME, and more. In his spare time, Matt is an avid cinema-goer, keen runner and average golfer (at best). You can follow him @MattPoskitt64
-
Philips Hue finally upgrades its app with multi-bridge support
Philips Hue users with multiple Hue Bridges are going to love this app update
By Bethan Girdler-Maslen Published
-
Huge 65-inch LG OLED TV deal drops to lowest-ever price in Amazon deal
You won't find OLED tech this good for a lower price
By Mike Lowe Published
-
Huge sequel with 94% on Rotten Tomatoes makes Disney+ a must this November
Deadpool & Wolverine is finally on its way
By Max Freeman-Mills Published
-
Disney+'s most eagerly-awaited new Marvel series gets a release date at last
The devil is in the details
By Rik Henderson Published
-
10 blockbuster movies coming to Netflix, Amazon, Apple TV+ and Disney+ soon
There are some great films heading to streaming services – here are 10 highlights
By Brian Comber Published
-
How to watch the biggest Emmy 2024 winners on Netflix, Disney+, Amazon and Apple TV+
A whole host of Emmys were given to shows on streaming services, so here's where to watch them
By Rik Henderson Published
-
Marvel teases Disney+'s most-eagerly awaited new MCU show
The devil is in the details
By Rik Henderson Published
-
10 must-see TV shows coming soon to Netflix, Amazon, Disney+, Apple TV+ and more
Our picks of the best shows coming to streaming services before the end of 2024
By Brian Comber Published
-
3 most underrated sci-fi shows on Netflix, Prime Video and Disney+
Streaming services are jam-packed with great sci-fi series, but here's 3 you might have missed
By Brian Comber Published
-
Disney+ show with 97% score on Rotten Tomatoes returns for season 4 this week
Only Murders in the Building is nearly back
By Max Freeman-Mills Published