Marvel Studios is looking to add another fresh hero to the MCU as it begins work on developing a film set around Nova.
Deadline reports that Loki and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness writer Michael Waldron is set to write and potentially direct a Nova film. No details were shared on the project beyond the fact that it is in early stages, but it’s not the first time Marvel has tried to adapt the cosmic character. Nova’s MCU debut has been in the cards since the early 2010s, when the character was originally planned to appear in Guardians of the Galaxy. However, his character was eventually cut from the script.
Kevin Feige has expressed interest in adapting Nova over the years, and it almost happened. Moon Knight writer Sabir Pirzada was previously developing a Nova TV series, likely for Disney+. However, the project was put on the backburner last year, seemingly as part of a larger shift away from Marvel shows on Disney+. However, it’s clear that Marvel wants Nova to be a piece of the MCU going forward by pivoting to a film centered around the character.
For those unfamiliar with Nova, he’s a Green Lantern-esque character working with a space police force known as the Nova Corps. They harness a powerful cosmic energy known as Nova Force, allowing them to battle any being that crosses their path and protect the galaxy. It’s likely that Nova would be introduced following Avengers: Secret Wars, which is set to release next year. We’re not quite sure what the MCU will look like after Doctor Doom’s imminent rampage, but one has to imagine it will be pretty different and possibly allow for a bit of a reset for Marvel.
There’s oodles of potential for a character like Nova, especially with the Guardians of the Galaxy likely being somewhat retired after James Gunn’s departure from the franchise. However, Marvel has had some difficulty introducing new characters post-Endgame, so it remains to be seen if audiences will gravitate to Nova when he makes his debut.
Cade Onder is a freelancer for IGN’s news team. He covers all things entertainment, including gaming, film, and more. You can find him on Twitter @Cade_Onder.
