Understanding the Complexity of the Marvel Cinematic Universe and S.H.I.E.L.D.
Marvel has crafted a vast universe of superheroes and complex storylines, and one of the often-discussed questions is: where are all the superhumans from TV series S.H.I.E.L.D. in the Missionary Cinematic Universe(MCU)?
Canonical Status of TV Shows and MARVEL Studios
Many fans have raised the question regarding the inclusion of S.H.I.E.L.D. characters and storylines within the MCU timeline. However, the answer is not straightforward. The show Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. is not considered MCU canon. More precisely, it's not part of the main MCU timeline. This means that, according to the official narrative, anything that happens within the show is not canon, meaning it doesn't directly influence or appear in the MCU movies and television.
The Rift Between Marvel Studios and S.H.I.E.L.D. TV Network
Behind this decision lies a complex relationship between Marvel Studios and the film and television network previously responsible for S.H.I.E.L.D.. Initially, the idea was to connect the on-screen narratives in such a way that the TV series and the movie universe would share the same universe. However, issues arose when conflicts emerged between Kevin Feige, Marvel's chief creative officer, and Ike Perlmutter, the creator and producer of S.H.I.E.L.D.. These differences, coupled with Marvel's ownership transition, eventually led to a separation of the TV show from the main MCU narrative.
Characters and Their Potential Inclusion
Despite the separation, fans often imagine what it would be like to see S.H.I.E.L.D. characters in the MCU. The show featured several characters with unique and powerful abilities, such as Ghost Rider, Yo-Yo, Quake, Graviton, and others. However, these characters have not appeared in the MCU films, even in events like the Battle of New York, the Battle of Sokovia, and in the final battle in Wakanda. One might wonder, why these characters have not made any appearance? One reason could be that MARVEL Studios prefers to use its own characters, rather than those from licensed properties.
The Potential for Future Inclusion
However, just as with Ms. Marvel, Kamala Khan, there might be a potential for some S.H.I.E.L.D. characters to reappear. In one possible scenario, some S.H.I.E.L.D. characters are on Earth, much like Ms. Marvel. One interesting possibility is that with the Inhuman royal family's relocation to Hawaii following a military coup, these characters could be brought into the MCU in a reboot or a new series. This would align with other instances where Marvel has revisited and reimagined characters from previous series, such as Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 and Thor: Love and Thunder.
Conclusion
The separation between the S.H.I.E.L.D. TV series and the MCU is a complex phenomenon rooted in the changing dynamics of the entertainment industry and Marvel's storytelling. While it may be frustrating for fans, the chance exists for certain characters to find their way into the MCU through creative storytelling and collaborative efforts.