Disruption in the MCU: How Comic-Con, the Writers’ Strike, and Jonathan Majors’ Controversy Could Reshape Marvel’s Future

by Annika June 21, 2023

Marvel Studios has confirmed that it will significantly reduce its involvement at San Diego Comic-Con 2023, forgoing its customary high-profile Hall H presentation. Fans have come to anticipate Marvel’s grand Comic-Con reveals, which have included thrilling first looks at upcoming films and shows, as well as cast announcements. However, the ongoing writers’ strike, coupled with the potential of a SAG-AFTRA strike, have caused the studio to halt production on several projects and reconsider its involvement in the event.

While Marvel will maintain a presence on the convention floor, its reduced role in Comic-Con this year may have deeper implications for its ongoing projects and future plans, especially concerning the character of Kang, portrayed by Jonathan Majors. With Majors currently facing legal troubles, questions about the handling of his character and the direction of future narratives within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) have been raised.

The writers’ strike has led to a pause on multiple Marvel productions, including highly anticipated projects like “Blade,” “Thunderbolts,” “Daredevil,” and “Wonder Man.” Should the SAG-AFTRA strike also occur, promotional activities for upcoming films or TV shows would be severely impacted. Given that the union’s current contract with Hollywood studios expires on June 30, just a few weeks before the San Diego Comic-Con scheduled for the weekend of July 21, the event could look quite different this year.

This unusual scenario also puts a spotlight on the wider future of Marvel Studios and its properties. Having had a triumphant return to Hall H last year with significant announcements about MCU’s phases, the recent developments might be a temporary setback, but they also indicate that the studio’s approach and future strategy may need to evolve in response to these industrial disputes and legal issues.

Other major studios, including Universal and HBO, might also opt out of this year’s Comic-Con, highlighting the wide-ranging impact of the current challenges facing the industry. However, despite this year’s scaled-down presence, fans are encouraged to remain optimistic about the return of their beloved franchises. As the adage goes, “There’s always next year.”