Disney Just Announced Two Unexpected MCU Projects You Should Watch Before Ironheart — Here’s Why

The Marvel Cinematic Universe is gearing up for the launch of Ironheart, a new Disney+ series debuting on June 24, 2025.

The show centers on Riri Williams, a brilliant MIT student who designs her own high-tech armor, echoing the legacy of Tony Stark. After years of development with limited updates, anticipation is high for this series, which will wrap up Phase Five of the MCU.

To prepare fans, Disney+ has shared a character spotlight and a list of must-watch MCU projects to understand Ironheart’s context.

These include the Iron Man trilogy, Black Panther, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, What If…?, and both Doctor Strange films. Each project ties into Riri’s story in unique ways.

Riri, played by Dominique Thorne, first appeared in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, where her tech genius and armor-building skills were introduced. The Ironheart series will pick up shortly after those events, making the Black Panther films crucial for understanding her background.

The Iron Man movies are equally important, as Riri’s story draws heavily on Tony Stark’s legacy, even if she isn’t his direct protege in the MCU. Their shared knack for building advanced suits connects them thematically.

The inclusion of What If…? hints at the multiverse’s growing role in the MCU. While its connection to Ironheart may not be direct, the series broadens the understanding of alternate realities, which could play a part in Riri’s journey.

More surprisingly, the Doctor Strange films are recommended viewing, pointing to a key element of Ironheart: the clash between technology and magic.

At the heart of this conflict is the show’s villain, Parker Robbins, aka The Hood, portrayed by Anthony Ramos. In the comics, The Hood is a criminal who gains powers from a demonic cloak. In the MCU, his dark magic will challenge Riri’s tech-driven approach, creating a dynamic described as “two sides of the same coin.”

The Doctor Strange films, which explore the MCU’s mystical rules, provide essential context for how magic might shape this battle.

Rumors are also present about a possible appearance by Mephisto, a major Doctor Strange villain, potentially played by Sacha Baron Cohen. Though unconfirmed, the speculation has persisted since WandaVision and resurfaced during Agatha All Along. If true, Mephisto’s inclusion would deepen the mystical elements of Ironheart and further tie it to Doctor Strange.

The cast includes Lyric Ross as Riri’s friend Natalie Washington, Alden Ehrenreich as Joe McGillicuddy, and Anji White as Riri’s mother, Ronnie Williams. Other actors, like Manny Montana as gang member “H.R.” John, Matthew Elam as Xavier Washington, and Eric André as Stuart Clarke (Rampage), round out the ensemble.

Additional roles are filled by Regan Aliyah, Harper Anthony, Rashida “Sheedz” Olayiwola, Paul Calderón, Cree Summer, and Jim Rash as the MIT Dean.

Ironheart will release its first three episodes on June 24, 2025, with the final three following on July 1. As the last MCU series of Phase Five, it promises to blend high-tech action with mystical intrigue.

Ironheart has the potential to be a fresh addition to the MCU, balancing Riri’s grounded, tech-driven story with the unexpected twist of magic. The contrast between her ingenuity and The Hood’s dark powers could create a compelling narrative, especially if Mephisto enters the mix.

I’m excited to see how Riri carves her own path while honoring Tony Stark’s legacy. What do you think about Ironheart’s mix of tech and magic? Share your thoughts in the comments below!