Fans Weigh In: Top 10 Most Underrated Characters in the MCU

When discussing MCU characters, our focus often gravitates towards the Avengers and prominent villains. However, the MCU owes much of its success to secondary characters whose roles significantly influence the storyline.

That’s why fans recently turned to Ranker to determine the top 10 most underrated characters in the MCU. While some may never regain the spotlight due to past events, others still hold the potential for greater recognition.

10. Talos

Talos made his debut in ‘Captain Marvel’ as the compassionate leader of the displaced Skrulls, sparking hopes among fans for his significant role in the MCU’s future. While he did appear in the recent ‘Secret Invasion,’ his storyline took a tragic turn. We discovered that his life was even more sorrowful than anticipated, with his daughter nearly joining the enemy ranks. Ultimately, Talos sacrificed himself to protect the human president from Gravik’s attack, preserving his ultimate aspiration.

Although Talos may no longer grace our screens (at least this variant), many fans hope that the Skrull narrative won’t fade into obscurity. Like the character himself, it remains vastly underrated, and ‘Secret Invasion’ failed to do it justice.

9. Mantis

Mantis made her debut in ‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2,’ and with the revelation that she was Star-Lord’s half-sister, many anticipated her to play a lasting role in his journey. Possessing unique abilities, she added an intriguing dynamic to the team. However, in ‘GoTG Vol. 3,’ Mantis departed from the group to embark on a journey of self-discovery.

Despite her power and potential, we’ve yet to witness Mantis’s backstory and origins before joining the Guardians, leaving her narrative largely unexplored. While it’s uncertain if she’ll return for future projects, many fans hope for her comeback.

8. Drax The Destroyer

In the first ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ film, Drax’s deep-seated vendetta against Thanos stems from the tragic loss of his wife and daughter. However, over the course of the trilogy, Drax experiences significant character development. In ‘Guardians Vol. 2,’ his interactions with Mantis and the Guardians lead to a more nuanced understanding of family and purpose, moving beyond his initial quest for vengeance. This growth culminates in the latest installment, where Drax, like Mantis, chooses to part ways with the team to care for rescued children alongside Nebula on Knowhere.

7. Peggy Carter

Introduced as an English girl in ‘Captain America: The First Avenger,’ Margaret “Peggy” Carter’s influential career was instrumental in the establishment of S.H.I.E.L.D. and the Avengers. Initially working for the Strategic Scientific Reserve (S.S.R.) in New York, Peggy defied attempts to limit her to secretarial roles. She later co-founded S.H.I.E.L.D. with Howard Stark and Chester Phillips in 1965, after the defeat of HYDRA. Peggy’s significance in the MCU has been overlooked, but her variant in ‘What If…?’ suggests a promising future.

6. Edwin Jarvis

Edwin Jarvis, a vital figure in the MCU, served as Howard Stark’s loyal aide. After World War II, Stark entrusted Jarvis with aiding Peggy Carter in clearing his name of treason charges, cementing a close relationship between Stark and Carter. Jarvis likely played a key part in Tony Stark’s upbringing, inspiring the creation of the JARVIS program, which eventually evolved into The Vision with the influence of the Mind Stone.

5. Maria Hill

Maria Hill was Nick Fury’s trusted deputy, adeptly managing sensitive missions and overseeing vital logistical operations. Her role in eliminating secret HYDRA cells post-S.H.I.E.L.D. collapse made her an indispensable asset to the Avengers. Tragically, Maria Hill met her demise in ‘Secret Invasion,’ mirroring the fate of Talos.

4. Korg

Korg’s importance in the MCU is often overshadowed by his comedic role. Yet, he proves to be a steadfast ally to Thor throughout ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ and even joins him on Earth after The Snap, settling in New Asgard. Korg’s supportive presence likely plays a crucial role in preventing Thor from falling into despair and addiction following The Snap.

3. M’Baku

M’Baku is torn between challenging T’Challa for the Wakandan throne and joining forces with him against Erik Killmonger. Realizing the grave threat posed by Killmonger, M’Baku chooses to support T’Challa in defending Wakanda and rallies his armies for the decisive battle. His loyalty and bravery earn him a seat on the Tribal Council, affirming his dedication to T’Challa and Wakanda. M’Baku’s pivotal role is acknowledged as he now serves as a King of Wakanda.

2. Happy Hogan

Harold “Happy” Hogan, Tony Stark’s trusted friend and Head of Security at Stark Industries, started as Stark’s chauffeur and protector. He played a vital role in thwarting Ivan Vanko’s schemes and suffered severe injuries during Aldrich Killian’s attack. Stark’s pursuit of justice for Hogan’s injuries led him to face the Mandarin. Despite the challenges, Hogan recovered and continued to be a loyal friend and employee to Stark. Hogan’s significant presence spans across multiple movies, influencing numerous storylines.

1. Wong

Wong played a vital role in orchestrating the Masters of the Mystic Arts behind the scenes, which was essential for the climax of ‘Avengers: Endgame.’ Following Doctor Strange’s instructions after the Snap was reversed, Wong efficiently coordinated various teams to gather forces from different realms, including Wakanda, New Asgard, The Ravagers, and unexpected allies like Howard the Duck, Pepper Potts, and The Wasp, all within a short timeframe. Wong, like Happy Hogan, appeared in numerous projects and was involved in various plots. It’s promising to see him becoming an even greater part of the MCU in the future.

Have something to add? Let us know in the comments below!