After years of anticipation, Mephisto finally made his MCU debut in the final episode of Ironheart, with Sacha Baron Cohen playing the role.
It's been rumored for the last few years that the fan-favorite villain will be making his MCU debut. It first started when fans theorized about his appearance in WandaVision, which ultimately did not happen.
However, it did not stop fans from clamoring for Mephisto's debut, and fortunately, the wait is finally over.
When Did Mephisto Finally Make His MCU Debut?
During the final episode of Ironheart, it was revealed that Mephisto was the mysterious figure who gave Parker Robbins the hood and its magic powers.
Baron Cohen has long been rumored to be joining the MCU as Mephisto, and now, it's been finally confirmed.
The character had a crucial role in the final moments of the episode as Riri Williams decided to make a deal with him.
Mephisto took advantage of Riri's grief and vulnerability as he offered her the resurrection of Natalie. Riri accepted on the condition that he would not go after her loved ones.
As promised, Riri reunited with a revived Natalie. However, they also showed that the marks of Mephisto were starting to crawl over her skin, similar to what happened with Robbins.
While the series may have ended with a cliffhanger, it gave fans something to look forward to in the future of this corner of the MCU, as they are setting up Mephisto as a bigger figure moving forward.
Why Did They Finally Introduce Mephisto in Ironheart?
In an interview with EW, Ironheart creator Chinaka Hodge revealed that Marvel encouraged her to include Mephisto in the series.
"That's a really great question. I wish I could answer it more plainly. It was not my decision alone. I was empowered by Marvel to make that decision," she said.
"I don't know what will happen next with the character or with Sasha in the MCU. But as a fan, I'm really hoping to see him make lots of appearances."
While the ending might be surprising for fans, it was a tease of what's next for Riri Williams in the MCU and how she might handle the consequences of her actions.
"I was surprised by the ending just as much as the audience will be. I think it's a really fun payoff, and we're setting up Riri to make big, grown woman decisions in the MCU. I think our cliffhangers will excite our fans and allow them to dream around whatever doom might befall them," Hodge said.
"I think it's so yummy that Riri doesn't have to walk the traditional hero path. She has already crossed some lines and figured she'll handle the consequences on the other side."
Hodge continued, "So what exactly is the scope? What's the scale of those consequences? And does she continue to resist? Does she continue to do the right thing or does she lean into the other part of her?"
What do you think of Mephisto's MCU debut? Let us know in the comments.
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