The Marvel Cinematic Universe has brought us countless heroes and unforgettable moments. However, few have had as fresh and groundbreaking an introduction as Makkari in ‘Eternals’.
Played by Lauren Ridloff, Makkari was not only the MCU’s first deaf superhero but also its most captivating speedster. Makkari’s speed in Eternals was depicted perfectly and was also grounded in realism. In a universe overflowing with superpowers, hers felt new. Authentic.
Lauren Ridloff Shuts Down Rumors About Makkari’s Return In ‘Avengers: Doomsday’
Despite all the love fans had for Makkari, Lauren Ridloff believes a return as Makkari is “not likely.” As Marvel Studios began assembling its massive roster for ‘Avengers: Doomsday’, questions around her inclusion were increasing. However, speaking at a red carpet Ridloff broke hearts with her heartbreaking response when asked about Makkari’s return.
“Not likely. I don’t know, my magic eight-ball is telling me, ‘Not likely,’” she told The Direct. And just like that, the glimmer of hope fans had for her return dimmed significantly. What’s even more upsetting is that this isn’t just about Makkari, it’s about the entire ‘Eternals’ ensemble. Marvel’s silence on the team since their Phase 4 debut feels like a deliberate exclusion.
Despite mixed reception, the film introduced some of the most diverse, powerful, and conceptually rich characters the franchise has ever seen. And now? They’re MIA. Ridloff previously expressed hope for a return while talking to Business Insider, even suggesting back in 2022 that she “would think” Makkari would appear again. Now, it doesn’t seem like it’s happening.
Despite The Bad Reception, The ‘Eternals’ Deserve More
‘Eternals‘ was ambitious, maybe even too ambitious. It introduced ten new heroes, a new mythology, and world-altering stakes in one movie. That’s a tough task. Due to this, the film felt overstuffed and underwhelming at the same time. However, it also dared to be different. It didn’t rely on cameos or crossover hype. It gave us something the MCU hadn’t before.
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Sure, it didn’t land perfectly, but there was so much potential. The Celestials, Arishem’s judgment, are arcs that deserve further exploration. And let’s not forget: the film ended on a massive cliffhanger. Arishem literally pulled Sersi and others from Earth, and the looming threat of judgment hung in the air. So… what now? Nothing? Makkari, in particular, stood out not only for her speed but for her heart.
She didn’t get the screen time she deserved in ‘Eternals‘, and now, she might not get another chance. That’s not just a missed opportunity. It’s a disservice to a character who redefined what a superhero could look and sound like. If ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ is meant to be an epic ensemble showdown, what better time to bring back powerful yet underutilized heroes like Makkari?
She could easily stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the likes of Doctor Strange, Spider-Man, and Captain Marvel. While Ridloff’s comments are disheartening, the MCU has always thrived on second chances. Characters presumed dead have returned. Canceled storylines have been revisited. So, if there’s enough demand for the ‘Eternals’ Marvel can and should course-correct. There are plenty of avenues for their return.
