Marvel Confirms Netflix’s Daredevil Series as Part of the MCU Canon
Marvel’s Daredevil series on Netflix, which aired from 2015 to 2018, has recently been acknowledged as an integral part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), according to a Marvel executive.
Brad Winderbaum, a key figure in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as an executive producer, revealed to Screen Rant that Daredevil is now considered a part of the MCU canon. Winderbaum highlighted the significance of actors like Charlie Cox, who portrayed Daredevil, and Vincent D’Onofrio, known for his role as Kingpin, re-entering the spotlight.
Moreover, the MCU’s upcoming show, Echo, set to premiere on January 9, features snippets from the Netflix Daredevil series in its latest trailer, solidifying the connection between the two.
Initially, Daredevil stood as the pioneering Marvel series on Netflix, existing somewhat independently from the broader MCU narrative. Across its three-season run, each consisting of 13 one-hour episodes, Charlie Cox notably embodied the character of Daredevil, prompting speculation when he later reprised the same role within the MCU alongside Vincent D’Onofrio’s portrayal of Kingpin.
The concept of the multiverse introduced in comic book adaptations led many to believe that the Netflix series stood apart from the established MCU narrative. Even Cox himself clarified that the upcoming Daredevil: Born Again show would not serve as a direct continuation, further contributing to the idea of a disconnected narrative. Previously, Marvel seemed to maintain this stance.
Winderbaum admitted that there was some ambiguity regarding what was considered the “Sacred Timeline,” representing the established canonical content within the MCU. This uncertainty arose from a time when Marvel Studios was navigating multiple projects, including the development of Netflix content, creating a need to balance various narratives.
However, upon reflection and observation of the interconnectedness of the stories, Winderbaum expressed confidence in redefining Daredevil’s status within the MCU as part of the “Sacred Timeline.”
This reclassification of Daredevil adds an additional 39 hours of content to the already extensive MCU offerings. Concerns have arisen about the vast volume of MCU shows, with even Disney CEO Bob Iger acknowledging that the abundance of content may dilute audience focus and attention. Comparing Phase 4’s length of 54 hours and 40 minutes to Phase 1’s 12 hours and 24 minutes highlights the significant expansion of the MCU narrative.