Summary
- Marvel's iconic 1990s animated universe featured the primary Avengers before their MCU debut.
- X-Men, Iron Man, Hulk, Fantastic Four, and more were part of the Marvel Animated Universe.
- Captain America, Iron Man, Hulk, and Thor were integral to establishing the Avengers in animated form.
Marvel's iconic 1990s animated universe featured each of the primary Avengers who would later appear in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Marvel's interconnected animated franchise is often referred to as the Marvel Animated Universe, boasting a wealth of shows and narratives featuring their most famous characters. As such, each main Avengers member depicted in the MCU timeline has made an animated appearance before their iconic depiction in the live-action franchise.
Many Avengers appeared in the Marvel Animated Universe shows. These comprise the iconic X-Men: The Animated Series, Iron Man, The Incredible Hulk, Fantastic Four, Avengers: United They Stand, and Spider-Man Unlimited. While Avengers: United They Stand depicted several classic Avengers, it drew primarily from the West Coast Avengers, depicting less well-known heroes. The series does, however, confirm that Captain America, Thor, Hulk, and Iron Man each exist, and founded the Avengers before the debut episode.
Related Every Upcoming Marvel Movie: Full MCU Phase 5 & 6 List (& Beyond) Between Marvel Studios and Sony Pictures Entertainment, here is every upcoming Marvel movie release date and what we know about the projects so far.
12 Captain America Made Numerous Appearances Throughout The Marvel Animated Universe Captain America Featured In X-Men: TAS, Iron Man, Fantastic Four, and Avengers: United They Stand Close Captain America has been a prominent figure in the Marvel Animated Universe, appearing across various shows. Notably, his team-up with Wolverine in an exhilarating episode of
X-Men: The Animated Series remains an effective adventure, showcasing their dynamic camaraderie and formidable teamwork. Additionally, Captain America featured prominently in some of the most thrilling episodes of Spider-Man, including the iconic “Secret Wars” adaptation.
Captain America's Marvel Animated Universe Appearances
Spider-Man Season 4, Episode 2 "Chapter II: The Cat"
Spider-Man Season 5, Episode 4 "Six Forgotten Warriors Chapter III: Secrets of the Six"
Spider-Man Season 5, Episode 5 "Six Forgotten Warriors Chapter IV: The Six Fight Again"
Spider-Man Season 5, Episode 6 "Six Forgotten Warriors Chapter V: The Price of Heroism"
Spider-Man Season 5, Episode 9 "Secret Wars Chapter I: Arrival"
Spider-Man Season 5, Episode 10 "Secret Wars Chapter II: The Gauntlet of the Red Skull"
Spider-Man Season 5, Episode 11 "Secret Wars Chapter III: Doom"
Spider-Man Season 5, Episode 12 "Spider Wars Chapter I: I Really, Really Hate Clones"
X-Men: TAS Season 2, Episode 4 "Red Dawn"
X-Men: TAS Season 4, Episode 9 "One Man's Worth - Part 1"
X-Men: TAS Season 4, Episode 10 "One Man's Worth - Part 2"
X-Men: TAS Season 5, Episode 7 "Old Soldiers"
Fantastic Four Season 2, Episode 6 "To Battle The Living Planet"
Fantastic Four Season 2, Episode 13 "Doomsday"
The Avengers: United They Stand Season 1, Episode 6 "Command Decision"
X-Men: The Animated Series episodes were aired out of their intended order, leading to some discrepancies in cataloging the episodes. Lists in this article reflect the aired episode order, as dictated by the official DVD release.
Captain America’s appearances in these shows highlight his enduring popularity. They also underscore his status as a symbol of heroism and justice within Marvel’s animated realm. Whether leading the charge alongside the X-Men or battling alongside Spider-Man,
Captain America's presence adds an extra layer of excitement and inspiration to the Marvel Animated Universe.
11 Iron Man Made Several Memorable Appearances Iron Man Appeared In Iron Man, The Incredible Hulk, Fantastic Four, And X-Men: TAS Close Iron Man has been a prominent figure in the Marvel Animated Universe, featuring in a multitude of shows, including two seasons of his solo series Iron Man. In The Incredible Hulk, he engages in an epic showdown with the Hulk, showcasing his technological prowess. Additionally, he
lends his expertise to Marvel's first family in some of the best Fantastic Four episodes, contributing to their battle against Ego, the Living Planet, among others.
Iron Man's Appearances In The Marvel Animated Universe
Iron Man Season 1, Episodes 1-13
Iron Man Season 2, Episodes 1-13
Spider-Man Season 3, Episode 10 "The Sins of the Father Chapter X: Venom Returns"
Spider-Man Season 3, Episode 11 "The Sins of the Father Chapter XI: Carnage"
Spider-Man Season 3, Episode 12 "The Sins of the Father Chapter XII: The Spot"
Spider-Man Season 5, Episode 9 "Secret Wars Chapter I: Arrival"
Spider-Man Season 5, Episode 10 "Secret Wars Chapter II: The Gauntlet of the Red Skull"
Spider-Man Season 5, Episode 11 "Secret Wars Chapter III: Doom"
Spider-Man Season 5, Episode 12 "Spider Wars: Chapter I: I Really, Really Hate Clones"
Fantastic Four Season 1, Episode 13 "The Silver Surfer And The Return Of Galactus"
Fantastic Four Season 2, Episode 6 "To Battle the Living Planet"
Fantastic Four Season 2, Episode 13 "Doomsday"
The Incredible Hulk Season 1, Episode 4 "Helping Hand, Iron Fist"
X-Men: TAS Season 4, Episode 9 "One Man's Worth"
Notably, Iron Man plays a pivotal role in the "Secret Wars" arc in Spider-Man: The Animated Series,
highlighting his importance in major crossover events. Across these appearances, Iron Man's leadership, intelligence, and unwavering determination are consistently showcased, solidifying his status as a cornerstone of the Marvel Animated Universe.
10 Thor Had Few Appearances In The Marvel Animated Universe Thor Appeared In X-Men: TAS, Fantastic Four, And The Incredible Hulk
Thor's presence in the Marvel Animated Universe is formidable, marked by memorable appearances across various shows. Notably, he shines in one of the standout episodes of The Incredible Hulk. Thor
demonstrates his mighty strength and godly abilities in a brief bout with the mighty hero before the pair team up.
Thor's Appearances In The Marvel Animated Universe
X-Men: TAS Season 3, Episode 16 "The Dark Phoenix Saga, Part III: The Dark Phoenix"
Fantastic Four Season 2, Episode 6 "To Battle The Living Planet"
Fantastic Four Season 2, Episode 8 "When Calls Galactus"
Fantastic Four Season 2, Episode 11 "Hopelessly Impossible"
The Incredible Hulk season 1, Episode 9 "Mortal Bounds"
In X-Men: The Animated Series, Thor leaves a lasting impression with a silent yet powerful cameo, demonstrating his status as a legendary hero. While his appearances in Fantastic Four may be less captivating,
Thor's involvement still adds an extra layer of excitement and heroism to the episodes. Throughout these animated adventures, Thor's iconic hammer-wielding heroics and noble demeanor continue to captivate audiences, solidifying his place as one of Marvel's most revered characters.
9 Black Widow Was Sadly Underrepresented In The Marvel Animated Universe Black Widow Only Appeared In X-Men: TAS Season 4, Episode 9 "One Man's Worth"
Despite her central role in other animated projects, Black Widow only made a solitary appearance in the Marvel Animated Universe. Her notable cameo was in one of the greatest X-Men: The Animated Series episodes, "One Man's Worth - Part 1," where she and an evil counterpart of the Avengers
hunt down the X-Men in a dystopian future. Black Widow can be seen briefly charging into battle, alongside Captain America, Was, and Giant-Man.
The intriguing X-Men: TAS episode inspired the renowned "Age of Apocalypse" event in Marvel Comics. Thus, the alternate reality depicted in this episode is
often referred to as the Animated Apocalypse universe. While brief, her presence in X-Men's "One Man's Worth" adds depth to the animated series and highlights her significance in the wider Marvel universe.
8 Hulk Engaged In Some Memorable Battles Hulk Appeared In The Incredible Hulk, X-Men: TAS, And Fantastic Four Close In the Marvel Animated Universe, Hulk has left an indelible mark with his dynamic appearances. His solo show, The Incredible Hulk, stands out for its thrilling adventures that showcased his immense strength and inner turmoil. Additionally,
Hulk made notable cameos in other Marvel animated shows. Hulk appeared in a simulation in the X-Men’s Danger Room in X-Men: The Animated Series.
Hulk's Appearances In The Marvel Animated Universe
The Incredible Hulk Season 1, Episodes 1-11
The Incredible Hulk Season 2, Episodes 1-11
Fantastic Four Season 2, Episode 9 "Nightmare In Green"
Fantastic Four Season 2, Episode 11 "Hopelessly Impossible
Iron Man Season 2, Episode 11 "Hulk Buster"
X-Men: TAS Season 4, Episode 1 "The Juggernaut Returns"
His encounters with the Fantastic Four highlighted his unpredictable nature, from confrontations to eventual alliances. Notably, Hulk clashed with Iron Man in a thrilling Iron Man episode, necessitating the latter to
don his formidable Hulkbuster armor. Throughout these appearances, Hulk's raw power and complex character have been central, explored through nuanced narratives that explore the intricacies of Bruce Banner’s identity crises.
7 Hawkeye Was a stalwart Member Of Two Hero Teams Hawkeye Appeared In Iron Man, Fantastic Four, And Avengers: United They Stand Close Hawkeye is a prominent figure in the Marvel Animated Universe, notably appearing throughout multiple shows. In Iron Man, he serves as a member of Tony Stark's team, Force Works. Hawkeye contributes his
unparalleled archery skills to the group's endeavors in nearly every episode of the series as a fiercely faithful team member.
Hawkeye's Appearances In The Marvel Animated Universe
Iron Man Season 1, Episode 1 "And the Sea Shall Give Up Its Dead"
Iron Man Season 1, Episode 2 "Rejoice! I Am Ultimo, Thy Deliverer"
Iron Man Season 1, Episode 3 "Data In, Chaos Out"
Iron Man Season 1, Episode 4 "Silence My Companion, Death My Destination"
Iron Man Season 1, Episode 5 "The Grim Reaper Wears a Teflon Coat"
Iron Man Season 1, Episode 6 "Enemy Without, Enemy Within"
Iron Man Season 1, Episode 7 "The Origin of the Mandarin"
Iron Man Season 1, Episode 8 "The Defection of Hawkeye"
Iron Man Season 1, Episode 12 "The Origin of Iron Man, Part 2"
Iron Man Season 1, Episode 13 "The Wedding of Iron Man"
Iron Man Season 2, Episode 1 "The Beast Within"
Iron Man Season 2, Episode 6 "Iron Man, On the Inside"
Iron Man Season 2, Episode 8 "The Armor Wars, Part 1"
Iron Man Season 2, Episode 10 "Empowered"
Iron Man Season 2, Episode 12 "Hands of the Mandarin, Part 1"
Iron Man Season 2, Episode 13 "Hands of the Mandarin, Part 2"
Fantastic Four Season 2, Episode 6 "To Battle The Living Planet"
Avengers: United They Stand Season 1, Episodes 1-13
Additionally, Hawkeye plays a central role in Avengers: United They Stand, appearing in each episode as a key member of the Avengers team. Throughout both series, his sharpshooting prowess and strategic thinking make him an invaluable asset to the superhero teams.
Hawkeye's consistent presence underscores his importance in the animated universe and highlights his enduring popularity among audiences as a beloved Avenger.
6 Scarlet Witch Had Varying Portrayals Across The Marvel Animated Universe Scarlet Witch Appeared In X-Men: TAS, Iron Man, And Avengers: United They Stand Close Scarlet Witch's portrayal in the Marvel Animated Universe is
varied and multifaceted. She was given a poignant origin story in X-Men: The Animated Series, showcasing her journey and inner struggles as a mutant. Throughout the first season of Iron Man, Scarlet Witch played a significant role as a member of Force Works, grappling with her powers and responsibilities. Her presence continued in the second season of Iron Man, albeit in fewer episodes.
Scarlet Witch's Marvel Animated Universe Appearances
X-Men: TAS Season 2, Episode 5 "Repo Man"
X-Men: TAS Season 4, Episode 13 "Family Ties"
Iron Man Season 1, Episodes 1-13
Iron Man Season 2, Episode 1
Iron Man Season 2, Episode 10
Iron Man Season 2, Episode 12
Iron Man Season 2, Episode 12
Avengers: United They Stand Season 1, Episodes 1-13
In Avengers: United They Stand, Scarlet Witch emerged as a central member of the team, appearing in every episode. This depiction showcased her as a powerful and integral part of the Avengers, highlighting her diverse abilities and unwavering commitment to the team's mission. Each of these depictions varies considerably,
unlike other Marvel characters who are portrayed consistently across the franchise, making Scarlet Witch a unique entry into the animated universe.
5 Falcon Had Far Too Few Appearances Falcon Appeared In Every Episode Of Avengers: United They Stand Close Falcon's presence in the Marvel Animated Universe is exclusive to Avengers: United They Stand, where he emerges as a prominent and integral member of the Avengers team. Despite not appearing in any other Marvel Animated Universe shows, Falcon's role in Avengers: United They Stand is significant. Falcon’s aerial prowess and unwavering dedication make him
a standout character throughout the series.
As one of the main Avengers members in Avengers: United They Stand, Falcon contributes to the team's dynamic and effectiveness. His depictions showcase his unique abilities and leadership qualities. While his appearances
may be limited to this particular series, Falcon's impact resonates strongly, leaving a lasting impression on the Marvel Animated Universe and its audience.
4 Vision Had A Memorable Appearance Before Receiving A New Origin Story Vision Appeared In Fantastic Four And Avengers: United They Stand Close Vision's presence in the Marvel Animated Universe is notable for his appearances in both Fantastic Four and Avengers: United They Stand. Initially, Vision features in memorable episodes alongside the Avengers team in Fantastic Four, showcasing his abilities in confrontations with Doctor Doom and Ego, the Living Planet. However,
Vision's prominence grows with his retold origin story in Avengers: United They Stand.
Vision's Appearances In The Marvel Animated Universe
Fantastic Four Season 2, Episode 6 "To Battle the Living Planet"
Fantastic Four Season 2, Episode 13 "Doomsday"
Avengers: United They Stand Season 1, Episodes 1-13
Vision was a central figure in Avengers: United They Stand, appearing in every episode. As a vital member of the Avengers, Vision's character development and contributions to the team's endeavors add depth and excitement to the series. Throughout his appearances,
Vision's iconic abilities and complex personality make him a compelling and memorable presence in the Marvel Animated Universe.
3 Nick Fury Featured As The Leader Of SHIELD Nick Fury Appeared In Iron Man, Spider-Man: TAS, X-Men: TAS, And Spider-Man Unlimited Close Nick Fury is
a ubiquitous figure in the Marvel Animated Universe. Fury offered his expertise and aid to various heroes in their battles against evil throughout the franchise. From assisting in Iron Man’s “Armor Wars," to joining forces with Captain America and Spider-Man in the "Six Forgotten Warriors" saga in Spider-Man: TAS, Fury's leadership is invaluable.
Nick Fury's Appearances In The Marvel Animated Universe
Iron Man Season 2, Episode 1 "The Beast Within"
Iron Man Season 2, Episode 4 "Not Far From The Tree"
Iron Man Season 2, Episode 8 "The Armor Wars - Part 1"
Iron Man Season 2, Episode 9 "The Armor Wars - Part 2"
Spider-Man Season 1, Episode 13 "Day of the Chameleon"
Spider-Man Season 4, Episode 2 "Partners In Danger Chapter I: Guilty"
Spider-Man Season 4, Episode 3 "Partners In Danger Chapter II: The Cat"
Spider-Man Season 5, Episode 2 "Six Forgotten Warriors Chapter I"
Spider-Man Season 5, Episode 4 "Six Forgotten Warriors Chapter III: Secrets of the Six"
Spider-Man Season 5, Episode 6 "Six Forgotten Warriors Chapter V: The Price of Heroism"
X-Men: TAS Season 2, Episode 7 "Time Fugitives - Part 1"
X-Men: TAS Season 5, Episode 7 "Old Soldiers"
Spider-Man Unlimited Season 1, Episode 1 "Worlds Apart Part One"
Even in smaller roles, such as his appearances in X-Men: TAS, notably in "Old Soldier," where his past narrative with Captain America and Wolverine is explored, Fury's impact is felt. Notably, Fury's appearance in the premiere episode of Spider-Man Unlimited makes him
the only character, aside from Spider-Man, to appear in the series. Fury served as the stalwart leader of SHIELD in numerous adventures, further cementing his status as a linchpin of the Marvel Animated Universe.
2 War Machine Fought Alongside Iron Man War Machine Appeared In Iron Man, X-Men: TAS, And Spider-Man Close War Machine is a consistent presence in the Marvel Animated Universe, often seen fighting alongside Iron Man. In Spider-Man: TAS, War Machine aids Iron Man in the battle against Carnage, showcasing his prowess and the pair’s unique brand of teamwork. Additionally, he makes
a brief but memorable cameo in X-Men: TAS, where he rescues civilians in the chaos of Dark Phoenix's rampage.
War Machine's Appearances In The Marvel Animated Universe
X-Men: TAS Season 3, Episode 7 "The Phoenix Saga, Part V: Child of Light"
Spider-Man Season 3, Episode 10 "The Sins of the Father Chapter X: Venom Returns"
Spider-Man Season 3, Episode 11 "The Sins of the Father Chapter XI: Carnage"
Iron Man Season 1, Episodes 1-13
Iron Man Season 2, Episodes 1-13
However, it's in Iron Man's solo series where War Machine truly shines, appearing in every episode as Tony Stark's loyal friend and ally. Throughout Iron Man, War Machine's unwavering support and formidable skills make him
an indispensable asset to Iron Man. As a firm member of the MCU’s Avengers, some classic animated adventures are likely to be adapted to live-action in the future.
1 Black Panther Appeared In Memorable Narratives Black Panther Appeared In X-Men: TAS And Fantastic Four Close Black Panther makes sporadic but impactful appearances in the Marvel Animated Universe. He is featured in
two brief cameos in X-Men: TAS episodes, showcasing his regal presence. However, his most prominent role is in Fantastic Four's "Prey of the Black Panther" storyline, where he clashes with the heroes.
Black Panther's Marvel Animated Universe Appearances
Fantastic Four Season 2, Episode 7 "Prey Of The Black Panther"
Fantastic Four Season 2, Episode 11 "Hopelessly Impossible"
X-Men: TAS Season 4, Episode 3 "Sanctuary - Part 1"
X-Men: TAS Season 4, Episode 3 "Sanctuary - Part 2"
In this Fantastic Four arc, Black Panther's strength, agility, and intellect are on full display as he challenges the Fantastic Four. His appearances across these series
offer glimpses into his rich character, highlighting his status as a formidable warrior and leader. While his appearances may be limited, Black Panther's impact is felt deeply in the Marvel Animated Universe, serving as the perfect precursor to his celebrated appearance in the
Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Marvel Cinematic Universe The Marvel Cinematic Universe is a multimedia superhero franchise that began in 2008 with Paramount's Iron Man starring Robert Downey Jr. The franchise quickly grew in popularity, with Disney eventually buying out Marvel Entertainment in 2009. The MCU consists of dozens of movies and TV shows, most notably Avengers: Endgame, WandaVision, and Loki.
Created by Kevin Feige
Cast Robert Downey Jr. , Chris Evans , Scarlett Johansson , Samuel L. Jackson , Jeremy Renner , Chris Hemsworth , Mark Ruffalo , Edward Norton , Paul Rudd , Tom Holland , Tom Hiddleston , Anthony Mackie , Cobie Smulders , Brie Larson , Chadwick Boseman , Sebastian Stan , Chris Pratt , Dave Bautista , Zoe Saldana , Bradley Cooper , Vin Diesel , Pom Klementieff , Josh Brolin , Karen Gillan , Clark Gregg , Paul Bettany , Don Cheadle , Benedict Cumberbatch , Evangeline Lilly , Simu Liu , Aaron Taylor-Johnson , Angelina Jolie , Kit Harington , Salma Hayek , Richard Madden , Barry Keoghan , Gemma Chan , Ma Dong-seok , Brian Tyree Henry , Kumail Nanjiani , Lauren Ridloff , Lia McHugh , Jonathan Majors Expand
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