A new rumor from insider Daniel Richtman claims that Marvel Studios is developing a Hercules project for the MCU. It’s not clear if it will be a Disney+ series, a special presentation, or a theatrical release.
Brett Goldstein as Hercules
Hercules showed up briefly at the end of Thor: Love and Thunder, played by Emmy-winning actor Brett Goldstein (Ted Lasso). The character was introduced as the son of Zeus, played by Russell Crowe, and was tasked with hunting down Thor after their battle damaged Zeus’s reputation.
Goldstein has confirmed that Marvel contacted him unexpectedly for the role and gave him only two weeks to get in shape: “When I spoke to [director] Taika [Waititi], I said, ‘You know I’m basically like a skinny comedian?'” Goldstein told The Playlist after Love and Thunder was released. “I said, ‘When is this filming?’ It was like in two weeks, and I was like, ‘I mean, I’ll do my best, but two weeks feels … He doesn’t have to be as big as Thor, does he?'”
His appearance was short but clearly intended to tease something more, and this latest rumor seems to confirm that Marvel has further plans. Similar to Love and Thunder, the fan response wasn’t overwhelmingly positive to Goldstein as Thor, but per his words, maybe if he buffs up, it could change fans’ minds. There could also be an issue, as Marvel Comics has changed Hercules into being bisexual.
Hercules in the Comics
In the comics, Hercules is a long-established character going back to Journey into Mystery Annual #1 from 1965. He was introduced as a rival to Thor, and the two have fought and teamed up numerous times. Hercules is known for being brash and headstrong, often clashing with other heroes before eventually joining forces. He’s even gone toe to toe with the Hulk and headlined the “Incredible Hercules” comic.
He’s been a member of the Avengers and helped found the Champions in the 1970s. His comic runs have included everything from high-stakes battles to comedic arcs where he struggles with his own ego and purpose. Hercules has also featured in recent cosmic storylines, often interacting with other myth-based characters across the Marvel universe. He also became friends with the Hulk.
What Could Be Next
If the rumor holds true, a Hercules project could continue threads from Thor: Love and Thunder, especially with Goldstein already cast and assuming they keep the actor in the role.
A big possibility is that Chris Hemsworth could retire from the Thor role and Hercules could become the next “god” of the MCU.
If the rumor is true, the Hercules project likely won’t happen until after Avengers: Doomsday.
