Fans Voted on 10 Most Underrated Characters in the MCU

When commenting on the MCU characters, we almost always reference the big hitters like the Avengers or the most notable villains. But the truth of the matter is the MCU wouldn’t be what it is today if not for the contribution of secondary characters whose actions impacted the storylines more than realized.

This is why fans took to Ranker to decide on the 10 most underrated characters in the MCU. Some, due to unfortunate circumstances will never get their 5 minutes of fame again, and for some, there is still hope. Let’s see who’s on the list.

10. Talos

Talos was introduced in ‘Captain Marvel’ as a benevolent leader of the displaced Skrulls, and fans expected him to have a massive role in the MCU going forward, and he did sort of. Talos appeared in the recently released ‘Secret Invasion,’ and we’ve learned that his life was even more tragic than we imagined, with his daughter almost falling to the enemy side, Talos had no choice but to make one more sacrifice. He died in ‘Secret Invasion,’ at the hands of Gravik while protecting the human president, keeping his ultimate dream alive.

While Talos can no longer appear ( at least not as in this version) we can only hope that the Skrull storyline won’t be easily forgotten because like the character itself, it’s extremely underrated, and ‘Secret Invasion’ in no way did it justice.

9. Mantis

Mantis was introduced in ‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2,’ and when we realized she was Star Lord’s half-sister, we expected her to become a permanent part of his journey. She also had some neat abilities to boot. However, with the release of ‘GoTG Vol 3,’ she left the team to find herself and what she truly wanted.

I realize that we’ve never actually seen who and what she was before she became part of the Guardians and her story will remain largely unexplored despite being a powerful member of the team. Let’s hope that they will bring her back for future projects although it doesn’t seem likely.

8. Drax The Destroyer

In the first Guardians of the Galaxy film, Drax’s vendetta against Thanos is established, growing from the loss of his wife and daughter. Despite his initially vengeful nature, Drax undergoes significant growth throughout the trilogy. In ‘Guardians Vol. 2,’ his interactions with Mantis and the Guardians foster a more nuanced understanding of family and purpose, marking a notable evolution from his single-minded pursuit of revenge. This growth perhaps reached its peak in the latest movie of the trilogy, since Drax like Mantis decided to depart the team and stay with Nebula on Knowhere to take care of kids rescued on High Evolutionary’s ship.

7. Peggy Carter

Initially introduced as the English girl on the army base in ‘Captain America: The First Avenger,’ Margaret “Peggy” Carter’s remarkable career played a pivotal role in the formation of S.H.I.E.L.D. and the Avengers. After her debut, Peggy worked for the Strategic Scientific Reserve (S.S.R.) in New York, resisting attempts by male superiors to confine her to secretarial duties. She later co-founded S.H.I.E.L.D. with Howard Stark and Chester Phillips in 1965, following the eradication of remaining HYDRA factions, incorporating the S.S.R. in the process. Peggy was underrated so far, but it seems that she might have a brighter future in the MCU, at least her variant does. Peggy is one of the core characters of ‘What If…?.’

6. Edwin Jarvis

Edwin Jarvis, Howard Stark’s trusted associate, is a crucial yet often overlooked character in the MCU. Following World War II, Stark relied on Jarvis to assist Peggy Carter in clearing his name of treason accusations, leading to a strong bond between Stark and Carter and their eventual co-founding of S.H.I.E.L.D.

Later, Jarvis likely played a significant role in raising Tony Stark, inspiring the creation of the JARVIS program, which later evolved into The Vision with the influence of the Mind Stone.

5. Maria Hill

Maria Hill served as Nick Fury’s right-hand woman, handling sensitive missions and proving herself as a skilled field agent. She also took charge of logistical operations, including the elimination of secret HYDRA cells after the collapse of S.H.I.E.L.D., making her an invaluable support system for the Avengers. Sadly, Maria Hill met her end in ‘Secret Invasion’ just like Talos did.

4. Korg

It’s really easy to overlook Korg’s significance for the MCU when he is often comedy relief. Korg becomes a supportive ally to Thor during the events of ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ and later accompanies him to Earth after The Snap, settling in New Asgard. Korg’s presence is likely instrumental in preventing Thor from succumbing to depression and substance dependency following The Snap.

3. M’Baku

M’Baku faces a dilemma between challenging T’Challa for the throne of Wakanda and assisting him against Erik Killmonger’s threat. Ultimately, recognizing the danger Killmonger poses, M’Baku aids T’Challa in defending Wakanda and gathers his armies for the final battle. His decision earns him a seat on the Tribal Council, solidifying his loyalty to T’Challa and Wakanda. At least M’Baku’s importance was at some point recognized as he currently serves as a King of Wakanda.

2. Happy Hogan

Harold “Happy” Hogan, Stark Industries’ Head of Security and Tony Stark’s close friend, initially worked as Stark’s chauffeur and bodyguard. He played a crucial role in combating Ivan Vanko’s threats and was gravely injured during Aldrich Killian’s conflict. Stark’s quest for justice for Hogan’s injuries led him to confront the Mandarin. Despite the ordeal, Hogan recovered and remained a steadfast friend and employee of Stark. You’re likely not even aware of how many movies this guy had appeared in and how many stories he impacted.

1. Wong

Wong’s pivotal role in organizing the Masters of the Mystic Arts behind the scenes was crucial for the ending 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 even unexpected allies like Howard the Duck, Pepper Potts, and The Wasp, within a short timeframe. Wong like Happy Hogan appeared in numerous projects and had his fingers in numerous plots, and we’re happy to see him becoming an even greater part of the MCU going forward.

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