The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) kicked off the 2020s with some notable challenges. The pandemic had a significant impact on output, and one of the most polarizing projects was Eternals. Initially, it appeared that Marvel had ambitious plans for these immortal beings, and thanks to actor Kumail Nanjiani, we now have some insight into what those plans might have entailed.
Nanjiani recently shared his experience during an episode of Mike Birbiglia’s podcast, Working It Out. He revealed that he signed on with the expectation of being a long-term player in the MCU, balancing blockbuster roles with independent projects. “I signed on for six movies, a video game, and a theme park ride. I thought, ‘This is gonna be my job for the next 10 years,’” he explained, shedding light on what could have been a much more extensive involvement in the franchise. However, with the Eternals being largely absent from the spotlight for nearly four years, Marvel hasn’t provided any substantial updates, making fans wonder about the fate of these characters.
Nanjiani’s mention of “six movies” likely refers to a couple of planned Eternals sequels, along with three guest appearances in other MCU films. The theme park ride probably relates to his likeness, while the potential video game could involve his character, Kingo. Considering Nanjiani has previously lent his voice to video games, it’s plausible that he might have been involved in a title like Strike Force or even a crossover in Fortnite.
Despite the mixed reviews, Nanjiani has expressed pride in his role within Eternals, although he candidly admitted that the film’s poor reception affected him deeply. He sought therapy where he realized, “too much of my self-esteem was tied up in other people’s reaction to my work.” As Marvel continues to navigate its future in the cinematic landscape, there remains hope that we will see Kingo and his fellow Eternals back in action in the years to come.
Are there any upcoming projects featuring the Eternals? While specifics remain unclear, Marvel’s recent strategic moves suggest that we might eventually see the Eternals make a return.
What did Kumail Nanjiani expect from his role in Eternals? He originally anticipated a long-term presence in the MCU, with a commitment to multiple films, a video game, and even a theme park attraction.
How did the poor reception of Eternals impact Nanjiani? He mentioned that the negative reviews profoundly affected him, leading him to seek therapy where he realized he had over-identified his self-worth with public opinion.
Will Kingo return in future Marvel projects? Although there’s been little official news, many fans hope Nanjiani’s character will reappear, especially given the evolving nature of Marvel’s storytelling.
For those interested in staying updated on Marvel’s upcoming releases, including potential returns of beloved characters, keep an eye on the latest news. Want to explore more about the Marvel Universe? Don’t miss other engaging content on Moyens I/O.