The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has long captivated fans with its dynamic storytelling, and Disney+’s animated series What If…? takes it a step further by diving into alternate realities. One of the most intriguing scenarios explored in the series is: What if Killmonger saved Tony Stark? This question forms the foundation of Episode 6, where Erik “Killmonger” Stevens (voiced by Michael B. Jordan) steps in and drastically alters Stark’s fate in Afghanistan.
In this alternate universe, instead of Tony Stark being captured by the Ten Rings and building the first Iron Man suit, Killmonger rescues him, leading to a series of pivotal changes in the MCU timeline. Let’s break down this fascinating episode and explore the potential impacts this “What If” moment has on Tony Stark’s journey.
Killmonger’s Influence on Tony Stark
The episode begins with Tony Stark in Afghanistan, the familiar scene where his convoy is ambushed. In the main MCU timeline, this attack leads to Stark’s capture and eventual transformation into Iron Man. However, in this alternate version, Killmonger intervenes, saving Stark before the terrorists can capture him. This change immediately shifts Tony’s destiny, as he never experiences the trauma of being held captive or building the Mark I suit to escape.
Killmonger’s presence, however, isn’t purely altruistic. As a strategic and cunning character, Killmonger uses his relationship with Stark to manipulate events in his favor. The absence of Tony’s transformation into Iron Man leaves Stark Industries focused on weapons development, with Killmonger acting as a key advisor. Together, they work on advanced technology like the Stark Liberator drones, but Killmonger’s true motives remain hidden beneath this alliance.
As a fan of the MCU, watching Killmonger’s calculated moves is both thrilling and unsettling. “I knew Killmonger had a grand plan, but seeing him outsmart Tony Stark at every turn was incredible,” said one viewer in a Marvel discussion forum.
The Impact on Wakanda and Beyond
Killmonger’s ultimate goal, as seen in Black Panther, is to take control of Wakanda and use its resources for a larger global revolution. In this alternate scenario, Killmonger manipulates Tony Stark and other key players to orchestrate a conflict between the U.S. and Wakanda, a move that would allow him to rise to power. His actions result in the deaths of several major characters, including T’Challa, further changing the course of events in Wakanda and the world.
This episode paints a dark picture of what could happen if one of the MCU’s most dangerous villains gained significant influence over a tech genius like Tony Stark. Without the moral compass that Stark develops in the original timeline, the world is left vulnerable to Killmonger’s ambitions. “It was fascinating to see how quickly things spiraled out of control without Tony becoming Iron Man,” said a fan on Reddit, highlighting the episode’s unsettling tone.
How What If…? Brings New Depth to the MCU
The brilliance of What If…? lies in its ability to explore these alternate realities without disrupting the core MCU continuity. By presenting these “what if” moments, Marvel gives fans a chance to ponder how a single change in the timeline could ripple through the universe.
For Tony Stark, the lack of his Iron Man persona in this episode is a striking reminder of how critical that transformation was to his development as a hero. Without the events in Afghanistan, Stark never becomes the man who sacrifices everything to save the universe in Avengers: Endgame. Instead, he remains the reckless billionaire, easily swayed by others with more nefarious motives.
Killmonger’s role in this alternate timeline also brings out new facets of his character. While we see him as a ruthless antagonist in Black Panther, this episode demonstrates his ability to manipulate and outmaneuver some of the most powerful figures in the MCU. His cunning and ambition make him an even more dangerous adversary in this reality.
Quotes and Reflections from the Cast
During an interview with Marvel.com, Michael B. Jordan shared his excitement about returning to the role of Killmonger in What If…? “It was fun to reimagine Killmonger in this alternate universe. This version of him is even more dangerous because he’s able to work behind the scenes,” Jordan said.
Jeffrey Wright, who voices The Watcher, also commented on the episode’s dark twist. “Tony Stark’s journey is one of redemption in the main MCU timeline, but in this episode, that redemption never happens. It’s a powerful reminder of how fragile the future can be,” Wright shared.
The Power of What If…?
The sixth episode of What If…?, titled “What If Killmonger Rescued Tony Stark?”, offers a thought-provoking and chilling alternate reality. Through Killmonger’s manipulation and Stark’s unchecked ambition, the episode showcases how the absence of Iron Man would have left the world vulnerable to the whims of power-hungry individuals.
As we explore these alternate universes, it’s clear that every decision in the MCU has the potential to drastically alter the course of history. Fans of the series can’t help but wonder what other possibilities await as the multiverse continues to unfold.
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