Marvel did not need a complete cameo to make people talk; only one line was enough. The second season of ‘Daredevil: Born Again’ brings back Jessica Jones with more than just action and attitude.
It subtly leaves a clue that might redefine what we believe to be known about Luke Cage and his current position in the MCU. It is subtle and can be overlooked. But when it hits, it is difficult to turn it off.
Luke Cage’s MCU Comeback Just Got A Major Twist
In a tense conversation with Matt Murdock, Jessica mentions that a shadowy figure has been recruiting powered individuals, and not everyone turned him down. That is a heavy line. It is not exposition, but implication.
Even more is said with Matt’s reaction. He does not say who, but he already seems to know. Such recognition makes the field very small very fast, and the most rational solution is Luke Cage.
Related: ‘Daredevil: Born Again’s Secret Cameo Could Shape Marvel’s Future
The connection is not accidental. It feels deliberate because of their common past, even in bits. There’s another layer here as well. Jessica is a mother now, and comic fans know just what that generally entails. Her daughter, Danielle, conventionally links her to Luke.
When you add that personal touch with the hint that someone she was close to might have gone on a darker or more complex route, the puzzle begins to fall into place. This is not Marvel telling you what to spell; this is Marvel leaving it to the audience to read between the lines.
‘Born Again’ Is Setting Up A More Complicated Return
If Luke Cage is already working behind the scenes, it is not whether he will come back, but how. And more to the point, whose side? The fact that he could be collaborating with an ethically questionable or even dangerous individual further complicates his eventual return.
In case you missed it: ‘Daredevil: Born Again’ Season 2 Turns Hell’s Kitchen Into A War Zone
Luke has always been an icon of power and honesty, and putting him in a compromised situation immediately increases the stakes. It also paves the way to conflict, not only physical, but ideological, between him and Matt.
And there is the larger picture. As Danny Rand is probably not too far behind, the groundwork is being prepared to have a proper Defenders reunion. However, this time it does not seem to be a mere team-up. It is sloppier, more human, and much less predictable.
And that is a good thing. Marvel does not have to rush Luke Cage back to the screen with a big bang. The slow burn is currently working harder. Even a few well-chosen hints have already given his absence the air of a presence, and when he does appear, it will count.
You might like to read: Will Luke Cage Return In ‘Daredevil: Born Again’ Alongside Jessica Jones?
