Marvel’s animated series What If...? returns for its third and final season on December 22, 2024, marking the end of a multiverse-spanning journey that has explored countless alternate realities within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). This season promises to delve deeper into the “what if” scenarios that reimagine classic MCU moments, adding fresh twists and bold storytelling that give fans one last chance to explore endless possibilities within Marvel’s expansive universe.
A Multiverse Playground: How What If...? Changed Marvel Storytelling
In What If...?, Marvel Studios brings the “multiverse” concept to life by asking the ultimate fan question: What would happen if key moments in the MCU unfolded differently? Narrated by Jeffrey Wright as the all-seeing Watcher, this anthology series has enabled Marvel creators to push the boundaries of canonical storytelling, using animation to explore some of the wildest alternate realities imaginable. With each season, What If...? has offered new perspectives on beloved characters, making Season 3’s final run a highly anticipated farewell to the multiverse playground.
Under the creative direction of Bryan Andrews and head writer Matthew Chauncey, Season 3 is shaping up to deliver a compelling blend of familiar characters and imaginative plotlines. Fans can expect a mix of epic battles, new alliances, unexpected foes, and even a bit of musical magic, as Marvel Animation sets out to leave an indelible mark with these final episodes.
Release Format: A Marvelous Holiday Marathon
Season 3 will kick off on December 22, with a new episode dropping each day until December 29. This eight-episode format is a treat for fans, allowing them to enjoy a week-long Marvel holiday marathon on Disney+. By unwrapping each new episode daily, Marvel fans can savor the excitement of the series finale and participate in the communal experience of Marvel’s last animated journey into the multiverse.
Highlights of Season 3: Unique Episodes and Standout Storylines
Each episode of What If...? Season 3 offers a different vision of the Marvel multiverse, presenting alternative timelines that range from gritty action to humorous and genre-bending adventures. Some of the standout storylines include:
Red Guardian’s Time to Shine: This episode brings the Soviet superhero Red Guardian (Alexei Shostakov) into the spotlight, alongside Bucky Barnes, Bill Foster (the original Giant-Man), and newcomer Ranger Morales. Originally slated for Season 2, this episode takes fans on a Cold War-era thrill ride, providing a rare glimpse into how these characters might interact and clash in an alternate reality.
Go-Avengers: Heroes of the Gamma War: Inspired by classic anime, this episode presents a wild scenario where the Avengers must pilot mechs to combat an army of Mega-Hulk monsters. It features a powerful roster including Sam Wilson as Captain America, Black Widow, Shang-Chi, Monica Rambeau, Moon Knight, Shuri, and more. This unique fusion of anime style and Marvel’s superhero lore promises high-octane action and a visual departure from the usual animation style, injecting a dose of Japanese-inspired epicness into the MCU.
Agatha Harkness’s Spellbinding Episode: Fan-favorite witch Agatha Harkness (portrayed by Kathryn Hahn in the live-action series) returns for an episode filled with mystery, magic, and an unexpected musical number. Agatha’s presence brings a whimsical yet dark tone to What If...?, adding to the season’s variety. A musical exploration of Agatha’s sorcery could offer delightful surprises and new insights into her character’s powers and motivations.
Shang-Chi and Kate Bishop’s Wild West Adventure: Set in a Western-themed universe, this episode features a team-up between Shang-Chi and Kate Bishop, two beloved characters with different skill sets and backgrounds. Together, they navigate the rugged, lawless world of the Old West, likely leading to a unique blend of martial arts, archery, and frontier-style heroics.
These episodes bring together iconic characters in scenarios that we could never see in the live-action MCU, underscoring What If...?’s role as a creative playground for Marvel Animation.
Jeffrey Wright as the Watcher: Guiding the Final Season
Jeffrey Wright’s Watcher returns as the omniscient guide, observing and narrating each storyline from the cosmic sidelines. As a member of the all-knowing Watcher race, his character holds the unique position of overseeing the Marvel multiverse and witnessing these dramatic “what if” scenarios unfold. Wright’s gravitas and intensity bring depth to the animated series, making the Watcher’s presence an essential thread that binds these disparate worlds together.
The Watcher has grown in complexity since the show’s inception, transitioning from a silent observer to a more active, emotionally invested character. Season 3 could explore the Watcher’s perspective on the multiverse he’s come to care about—and, perhaps, reveal his reasons for guiding the audience through these final stories.
A Star-Studded Cast and Familiar Faces
The voice cast for What If...? Season 3 includes an impressive lineup of MCU talent, with many actors reprising their live-action roles in the animated series. With Marvel’s dedication to keeping familiar voices and personalities, fans can anticipate hearing the likes of Simu Liu as Shang-Chi, Florence Pugh as Yelena Belova, Anthony Mackie as Captain America, and others, adding authenticity to each character’s animated portrayal. The blend of returning and new characters ensures that Season 3
stays true to the MCU’s spirit while expanding its animated universe.
Behind the Scenes: The Evolution of Marvel Studios Animation
Marvel Studios Animation has come a long way with What If...?, growing from a fascinating concept to a polished series with innovative animation styles and storytelling. Season 3 is a testament to Marvel’s commitment to quality animation, pushing the limits of the genre with episodes like “Go-Avengers: Heroes of the Gamma War,” which embraces anime aesthetics in a Marvel context. The decision to end the series with a memorable final season shows Marvel Animation’s intent to go out on a high note.
Under the direction of Bryan Andrews and the writing expertise of Matthew Chauncey, What If...? has redefined Marvel’s animated storytelling. By exploring alternate realities and embracing a flexible, genre-bending approach, the show has paved the way for Marvel Studios Animation’s continued evolution, potentially influencing future projects.
What If...? and the Legacy of the Multiverse
Marvel’s What If...? series has expanded the multiverse concept, now a core part of the MCU’s storytelling. From resurrected villains to unexpected team-ups, What If...? has provided insights into the character choices and pivotal moments that define Marvel’s heroes. As we bid farewell to the series, What If...?’s legacy as an experimental and exploratory arm of Marvel remains strong, reminding us of the narrative potential that lies beyond traditional superhero tropes.
Final Thoughts
With Season 3, Marvel’s What If...? is set to wrap up with style, creativity, and the surprises that have defined its run. By exploring everything from mecha battles to musical numbers, the final season is a testament to Marvel’s willingness to take risks and honor fan imaginations. As What If...? closes out its journey on December 22, the show will leave fans with one last reminder of the endless possibilities in Marvel’s multiverse. This holiday season, get ready to embark on one final adventure, where anything can happen—and where each “what if” is a story worth exploring.
Catch What If...? Season 3 on Disney+, and join Marvel in celebrating the finale of an animated masterpiece.
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