Marvel’s Next Big Heroes: 10 Characters Who Need Solo Projects in Phases 6 & 7

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The Marvel Cinematic Universe has long thrived on expanding its roster of heroes, giving fan-favorite characters the spotlight they deserve. While major icons like Captain America, Deadpool, and Spider-Man have dominated the big screen, many compelling figures remain on the sidelines or are yet to make their debut, waiting for their chance to lead a solo project. As Phases 6 and 7 approach, Marvel Studios has an opportunity to bring some more players from its vast catalog into the fold. Whether through film or Disney+ series, the next wave of solo outings could redefine the MCU’s future.

Expanding the universe with some of these characters would not only add depth to the larger roster of the franchise but also explore corners of Marvel lore that remain largely unexplored. From powerful warriors and cosmic entities to street-level vigilantes and supernatural forces, these heroes are primed for solo adventures that could bring fresh energy to the franchise at all of it’s levels.

10

Howard the Duck Could Deliver Marvel’s Weirdest Adventure

The Wisecracking Outsider Deserves a Second Shot at Stardom

Hailing from the aptly named Duckworld, and brimming with sarcasm, Howard the Duck is a fun candidate for the proper MCU spotlight. His brief cameos in Guardians of the Galaxy and What If…? have given Howard fans some fun romps with the character, but a solo project could finally give the cigar-smoking, no-nonsense duck the chaotic adventure he deserves. With his roots originally in satirical, offbeat storytelling, Howard’s journey could take him across the strangest corners of the Marvel Universe with the meaningful wit of his comic. A film or series centered on Howard could embrace the inherent absurdity that comes with the Duck while still delivering a meaningful underdog story.

In Steve Gerber’s original 1970s run, Howard’s story has always had a deeper edge than one would expect, offering sharp social commentary wrapped in ridiculous escapades. His outsider perspective allows for a unique take on Marvel’s sprawling canon, showing its dangers and absurdities through the lens of a character who could never take it too seriously. Whether dodging intergalactic bounty hunters or solving a simple mystery in a noir-inspired cityscape, Howard’s adventures could bring a fresh, irreverent energy to the MCU. With the right creative direction, the infamous 1986 misfire could be replaced with a clever, fast-paced spectacle that does justice to one of Marvel’s strangest and most beloved cult characters.

9

Dracula Could Unleash Marvel’s Darkest Horrors

The Lord of Vampires Holds the Key to a Gothic Nightmare

The supernatural side of the Marvel Cinematic Universe has only recently begun to take shape, and Dracula is the perfect antagonist to explore within Marvel’s mighty realm of horror. As the immortal ruler of vampires, his presence could bridge the gap between the supernatural and superhero worlds, introducing gothic terror as an Avengers-level threat. A solo project centered on Dracula could explore his origins, tracing the cinematically classic transformation from Vlad the Impaler to a creature of the night cursed with insatiable bloodlust. With the potential to be set across centuries, the film could showcase his reign over the vampire underworld, his conflicts with humanity (including his descendant, Frank Drake), and his inevitable clash with those who seek to end his dominion—whether they be Dr. Strange, Blade, Werewolf by Night, or a team encompassing all of the above.

Dracula’s story is one of power, tragedy, and survival, making him an ideal figure for a horror-driven villain-focused project. The film could lean into the classic gothic horror aesthetics, blending Dracula’s iconic imagery with brutal, supernatural Marvel combat. His rule over the vampire nation and his attempts to maintain control in a world that has evolved far beyond his kind could provide a layered, villainous perspective rarely explored in Marvel projects. Bringing the Thanos treatment to one of cinema’s oldest villains could expand Marvel’s supernatural mythos and solidify Marvel Studios’ commitment to embracing horror in the Marvel Universe.

8

Ghost Rider Could Ignite Marvel’s Darkest Flames

The Spirit of Vengeance Brings Hellfire to the Supernatural Realm

The supernatural horror elements introduced in Werewolf by Night and Blade could reach their fiery peak with Ghost Rider, perhaps Marvel’s most fearsome antihero. Cursed by Mephisto to serve as the Spirit of Vengeance, Ghost Rider’s story is one of torment, penance, and raw supernatural power. A solo project could explore his origin—whether focusing on Johnny Blaze, Danny Ketch, or Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.’s Robbie Reyes—as a mortal who makes a fateful deal, binding his soul to the demonic entity, Zarathos. The film could lean into the visceral horror, depicting the terrifying moment of transformation, the relentless thirst for vengeance, and the struggle to control an overwhelming, infernal force. His journey through shadowy highways, hunting down the wicked, could blend Western, horror, and action movie motifs into a visually striking and deeply unsettling experience.

Ghost Rider’s presence in the MCU would also provide a larger gateway to a darker, more occult corner of Marvel lore. His clashes with demons, spirits, and ancient evils could introduce figures like Mephisto, Blackheart, or Lilith, blowing the supernatural world of Marvel way beyond vampires and werewolves. A film centered on the Spirit of Vengeance could embrace a blend of horror and high-speed action, and could have the potential to give Marvel’s supernatural landscape a main hero; one who dispenses a chilling new vision of justice that burns through the night.

7

Hercules Could Bring Mythic Glory to the MCU

The Olympian Champion Stands Between Gods and Mortals

Introduced in the post-credits scene of Thor: Love and Thunder, Hercules has the potential to explore an entirely new pantheon within the MCU—the Olympian gods. A solo project centered on the demigod warrior could build his rich mythology into the larger MCU, chronicling his legendary feats, his conflict with Zeus, and his place in a world where gods of many pantheons walk among the Avengers. Unlike Thor’s cosmic Asgardian lineage, Hercules’ story is one of brute strength, flawed heroism, and a constant desire for the next fight. A film could embrace the grandeur of Greek mythology while maintaining Marvel’s signature action and adventure, giving new Thor-flavored battles against mythical beasts, divine rivalries, and a hero torn between the reckless indulgence of his past and the responsibility of his present, with a new twist.

Bringing Hercules into the spotlight would also allow Marvel to explore the fate of Mount Olympus following Zeus’ near demise. Conflicts between the Olympians and other celestial forces—such as Asgardians, Eternals, or even cosmic entities like Galactus—could shake up the hierarchy of power in the Marvel Universe. A Hercules story could blend the humor of the character with spectacle, portraying him as a larger-than-life warrior whose ego often matches his heart. Whether he embarks on a heroic journey of redemption or finds himself forced into a larger-than-life inter-pantheon war, Hercules has the potential to elevate Marvel’s mythological storytelling, carving a space for the Olympian gods within the larger Marvel pantheon.

The Avenging Son Balances Power, Honor, and War

Namor’s debut in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever introduced him as a formidable ruler and antagonist, but a solo project could fully explore the complexities of his character and the hidden kingdom of Talokan. As both a king and a longtime warrior, Namor is caught between protecting his people and the world they live in and confronting threats from the surface world, making his story one of duty in one moment, and vengeance in the next. A solo film could showcase the rich mythology of Talokan, giving a more in-depth look at its culture, history, and internal conflicts as Namor navigates the challenges of leadership and heroism. Whether facing off against rival kingdoms, ancient enemies, or even usurpers to his throne, Namor’s struggle to balance diplomacy with war would undoubtedly create a gripping political epic beneath the waves.

Expanding Namor’s story would also allow Marvel to explore the wider Talokani mythos and its connection to the larger MCU. His interactions with other powerful Marvel factions—such as Wakanda, Latveria, or even the legendary Lemuria—could set the stage for grander conflicts that shape the balance of power on Earth. A film could highlight Namor’s classic comic role, shifting from a hero to antagonist constantly, depending on who stands in his way. His deep passion for his people, his impatience for surface-dwellers, and the twisted sense of justice that he holds, make Marvel’s first antihero a shoo-in for a solo project.

5

Nova Could Bring High-Speed Heroics to the Cosmos

The Human Rocket Is Ready to Take Flight

The Marvel Cinematic Universe has expanded its cosmic frontier, but one of its most iconic space-faring heroes has yet to take center stage. Nova, whether focusing on Richard Rider or Sam Alexander, represents a perfect blend of youthful enthusiasm in the intergalactic side of the MCU. Gifted with the power of the Nova Force and burdened with the responsibility of defending the universe as a member of the interplanetary Nova Corps, he perfectly captures the same relatable, underdog appeal that makes Spider-Man and Invincible household names. A solo film could follow Nova’s journey from an ordinary teenager to a legendary cosmic protector, capturing the thrill of discovery and the weight of responsibility that comes with wielding such immense power.

Beyond personal growth, Nova’s story has the potential to further expand Marvel’s cosmic landscape. The film could take an Annihilation-inspired angle, exploring the remnants of Xandar after its destruction by Thanos, setting up Nova as the last hope for rebuilding the once-vast Nova Corps. Encounters with cosmic heavyweights like the Guardians of the Galaxy, Silver Surfer, and the Kree Empire would establish him as a fresh new key player in future galactic conflicts. Whether battling space-faring warlords, uncovering lost secrets behind his own power, or fighting to protect Earth from cosmic threats, Nova’s high-speed heroics would inject fresh energy into the MCU while paving the way for its next phase of galactic storytelling.

4

Squirrel Girl Could Bring Unstoppable Optimism to the MCU

The Quirky Heroine Who Wins Battles With Wit and Charm

Few Marvel characters embody the pure fun of the off-kilter side of Marvel like Doreen Green. With her enhanced agility, squirrel-like reflexes, and the ability to communicate with rodents, Squirrel Girl may seem unconventional, but her track record speaks for itself—having defeated Thanos, Dr. Doom, and some other Marvel heavyweights through intelligence, strategy, and the power of squirrel friendship. A solo film could embrace her lighthearted approach to heroism, showcasing her rise from an eager crimefighter to a true force for good in a classic coming-of-age story. Her infectious energy and refusal to let cynicism weigh her down would set her as a beacon of hope in the MCU, proving that a hero doesn’t need cosmic powers or high-tech armor to make a difference.

A Squirrel Girl film could also highlight Marvel’s street-level heroes and the comedic storytelling potential within those storylines, blending action with a self-aware, meta-humor approach that She-Hulk used to ground its protagonist. Her adventures could bring in characters like Kraven the Hunter, Taskmaster, or even MODOK as comedic-yet-formidable threats who have a history with Squirrel Girl in the comics. With her unique powers, boundless positivity, and ability to turn even the most terrifying battle into an opportunity for kindness, Squirrel Girl could bring a refreshing stampede of energy to the MCU.

3

Hank Pym’s Cold War Legacy Deserves Exploration

The Original Ant-Man Operated in the Shadows of History

Before Scott Lang took up the Ant-Man mantle, Hank Pym spent years as a brilliant scientist and covert operative who served as one of the first superheroes of the Marvel universe. A solo project set during the Cold War could dive into his early years, chronicling his breakthroughs with Pym Particles and initial astonishing tales as Ant-Man. Framed as a mix of espionage thriller and period-piece superhero film, the story could give exciting takes on his secret missions, his eventual partnership with the Wasp, and the formation of his complex relationship with S.H.I.E.L.D. His efforts to keep groundbreaking technology from falling into the wrong hands would provide a compelling narrative, blending science fiction with real-world historical tensions in a way the best of the MCU’s alternate history does.

Such a film could highlight the dangers of unchecked scientific discovery while introducing major Marvel figures tied to that era. Characters like a young Howard Stark, Peggy Carter, and even early iterations of HYDRA could factor into the conflict, creating a web of alliances and betrayals. Exploring Pym’s flaws—his arrogance, paranoia, and moral dilemmas—would add depth to his character, showing a genius whose own brilliance often became his greatest enemy. A Cold War-era Ant-Man project would not only expand Pym’s backstory but also provide a fresh, grounded perspective on an era where superheroes operated in the shadows rather than the spotlight.

2

Wolverine Could Unleash the X-Men’s Darkest Origins

The Adamantium-Clawed Warrior Has a History Worth Exploring

Few Marvel characters carry as much weight and history as the Wolverine. Whether giving the MCU take on Logan’s brutal past or Laura Kinney’s rise as his successor, a solo project could explore the raw, violent, and deeply personal stories that define the character within the larger Marvel tapestry. A film could dive into the shadowy experiments of the Weapon X program, chronicling the horrors that turned Logan into an unbreakable killing machine or Laura into a lethal clone struggling to chart her own path as Wolverine. The brutality of their journeys, combined with their struggle to reclaim their humanity, is a dark side of the government programs we’ve seen portrayed positively in the MCU. A fresh MCU take on Wolverine could explore his time serving with Captain America in World War II, his rivalry with Sabretooth, or any of the quintessential stories with the character—giving the MCU one of its most layered antiheroes.

Beyond personal conflict, Wolverine’s presence opens the door to the larger world of mutants. His past entanglements with government black ops, his clashes with figures like Sabretooth, Omega Red, and the people of Madripoor, along with his ties to the greater X-Men mythos, provide endless story possibilities. Whether unraveling his past in a noir-infused thriller or pitting him against the Incredible Hulk in a high-stakes survival tale, a Wolverine film could introduce the raw intensity and emotional depth that made him one of Marvel’s most enduring icons.

1

Silver Surfer Could Deliver Marvel’s Most Philosophical Epic

The Cosmic Wanderer Seeks Redemption Among the Stars

As the herald of Galactus, Silver Surfer has long stood as one of Marvel’s most tragic and introspective figures, since his original solo run from the unparalleled Stan Lee. His origin as Norrin Radd, a noble scientist who saves his homeworld by sacrificing his life to its attempted devourer, is a story rich with moral dilemmas, cosmic grandeur, and existential weight. A solo project could explore his time serving Galactus, forced to lead the Devourer of Worlds to innocent planets while his noble soul wrestles with the guilt of his actions. It could equally tackle the Surfer’s eventual rebellion, breaking free from his master’s control, potentially forming the foundation of what would surely be a visually stunning and deeply philosophical odyssey, blending classic Marvel cosmic visuals while pondering redemption, free will, and the cost of power.

Silver Surfer’s story also has the potential to introduce audiences to the true scope of the Marvel Universe, traveling beyond the known cosmos to encounter celestial beings, forgotten civilizations, and ancient cosmic forces from all corners of the MCU. His interactions with characters like Uatu the Watcher, Eternity, or the demon Mephisto could set the stage for several massive conflicts that could have franchise-wide ramifications. A Silver Surfer film could redefine the MCU’s cosmic storytelling, offering a poetic, deeply emotional exploration of one being’s quest for meaning in an endless universe.

“}]] From supernatural warriors to cosmic heroes, these 10 Marvel characters are perfect candidates for their own solo movies and shows.  Read More