The Only 4 Characters Who Appeared in 5 Phases of the MCU

The Marvel Cinematic Universe has woven a sprawling tapestry of heroes, villains, and epic battles over five phases, kicking off with ‘Iron Man’ and evolving into the Multiverse Saga. Amid the ever-growing roster of characters, only a handful have remained constant, serving as anchors through the shifting tides of the franchise’s ambitious storytelling.

Happy Hogan

Happy Hogan, portrayed by Jon Favreau, is Tony Stark’s loyal friend and security chief, first introduced in ‘Iron Man’ (2008) and appearing in ‘Iron Man 2’ (2010), ‘Iron Man 3’ (2013), ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’ (2017), ‘Avengers: Endgame’ (2019), ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’ (2021), and ‘Ironheart’ (2025). As a non-powered everyman, Happy grounds the MCU’s high-stakes chaos with his relatable humor and steadfast loyalty, transitioning from Tony’s bodyguard to a mentor for young heroes like Peter Parker and Riri Williams.

His dynamic with Tony, played by Robert Downey Jr., is built on a brotherly mix of banter and trust, with Happy often playing the straight man to Tony’s wit. His protective role with Peter in the Spider-Man films shows a softer side, making him a bridge between the MCU’s past and future. I love how Happy’s grounded presence offers a human touch, and his continued role in ‘Ironheart’ proves he’s more than just comic relief—he’s a vital link in the MCU’s emotional core.

James ‘Rhodey’ Rhodes

James ‘Rhodey’ Rhodes, first played by Terrence Howard and then Don Cheadle, is Tony Stark’s best friend and the armored hero War Machine, appearing in ‘Iron Man’ (2008), ‘Iron Man 2’ (2010), ‘Iron Man 3’ (2013), ‘Captain America: Civil War’ (2016), ‘Avengers: Infinity War’ (2018), ‘Avengers: Endgame’ (2019), ‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier’ (2021), and ‘Secret Invasion’ (2023). Rhodey’s military discipline and moral compass make him a steady force, balancing Tony’s recklessness and standing tall among the Avengers.

His friendship with Tony is one of the MCU’s strongest, rooted in mutual respect despite their clashes, like in ‘Iron Man 2’ when Rhodey takes the War Machine suit. His bonds with Sam Wilson and Nick Fury in Phase 5 show his growing role as a leader. I’m excited for ‘Armor Wars’, as Rhodey’s evolution from sidekick to standalone hero feels earned, and his consistent presence makes him a backbone of the MCU’s grounded heroism.

Loki

Loki, brought to life by Tom Hiddleston, is the Asgardian god of mischief who shifts from villain to antihero across ‘Thor’ (2011), ‘The Avengers’ (2012), ‘Thor: The Dark World’ (2013), ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ (2017), ‘Avengers: Infinity War’ (2018), ‘Avengers: Endgame’ (2019), ‘Loki’ (2021–2023), and ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ (2024). His charisma and complex arc, from scheming brother to multiverse-shaping figure, make him a fan favorite, with his own series redefining his place in the MCU.

Loki’s rivalry with Thor, played by Chris Hemsworth, evolves into a heartfelt bond, especially in ‘Ragnarok’, while his friendship with Mobius in ‘Loki’ adds depth to his redemption. His role in ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ shows his versatility, fitting into the multiverse’s chaos. I’m captivated by how Loki’s wit and vulnerability keep him central, and his multiverse-defining choices in ‘Loki’ make him a linchpin for the MCU’s future.

Bucky Barnes

Bucky Barnes, portrayed by Sebastian Stan, is the Winter Soldier, appearing in ‘Captain America: The First Avenger’ (2011), ‘Captain America: The Winter Soldier’ (2014), ‘Captain America: Civil War’ (2016), ‘Avengers: Infinity War’ (2018), ‘Avengers: Endgame’ (2019), ‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier’ (2021), and ‘Thunderbolts*’ (2025). His arc from Steve Rogers’ loyal friend to brainwashed assassin to redeemed hero is one of the MCU’s most compelling, blending tragedy with resilience.

Bucky’s bond with Steve, played by Chris Evans, is the emotional heart of the Captain America films, while his partnership with Sam Wilson in ‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier’ builds a new, banter-filled dynamic. His antihero edge in ‘Thunderbolts*’ alongside Yelena Belova excites me, as Bucky’s struggle for redemption keeps him relevant. I admire how his quiet strength and haunted past make him a standout, carrying the MCU’s emotional weight into Phase 5.

Which of these MCU constants is your top pick, or is there another character you think could’ve made the cut? Drop your thoughts in the comments!