The Marvel Cinematic Universe has been actively adapting to a number of changes in the entertainment industry. Now, with Disney Plus several years old, it looks like they could be making changes with some of their Marvel exclusives.
Disney Plus has played a massive part in the most recent phases of the MCU. The streaming platform has allowed for distribution of not only theatrical Marvel films, but live-action television shows, and a number of specials. Unfortunately, some major changes are reportedly in the works.
As shared by insider Daniel Richtman via CBM, a new MCU addition made by Disney Plus in 2022 could be leaving sooner rather than later. This will no doubt upset some fans, but it could be a necessity as Disney attempts to rejuvenate the Marvel brand that was previously such a huge success.
The publication specifically notes that Marvel’s “Special Presentations” banner could be getting scrapped in the near future. As explained in their summary of Richtman’s report, “the plan is to shelve them after Werewolf by Night and The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special both underperformed on Disney+.”
Interestingly, however, Marvel did have one other “Special Presentation” lined up. Disney Plus was expected to release the Marvel special “The Witches’ Road” under that same banner. Of course, if the “Special Presentations” banner is removed, it’s unknown how they plan to handle said series. According to the report, however, it would be “handled differently,” so we’ll have to see what that could include.
This lines up with other reports that Marvel Studios hopes to focus on their theatrical efforts as opposed to streaming. In fact, the upcoming series Echo is being released under a new banner titled “Marvel Spotlight“ in an effort to differentiate it from the main storylines of the MCU. It would make sense, then, that Disney Plus would want to be done with their “Special Presentations.”
Hopefully we’ll have more concrete information in the near future. Until then, take this report with a grain of salt. One thing is for certain – Marvel Studios is definitely adapting for a shifting entertainment landscape.