Marvel Television is preparing to launch a fresh venture from its animated lineup with the upcoming series “Marvel Zombies,” slated for release on Disney+ on September 24. This eagerly anticipated spin-off originates from the fourth episode of the 2021 animated series “What If…?” where Marvel fans first encountered a universe ravaged by a zombie apocalypse. Although the initial episode drew inspiration from Robert Kirkman’s acclaimed comic, “Marvel Zombies,” this new series is set to carve out its own narrative path.
Despite some nods to the comic in “What If…?,” Executive Producer Bryan Andrews explained that the new series largely diverges from the source material, adopting a unique storyline within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Head of Marvel Television, Brad Winderbaum, emphasized that while they introduced the tone set by Kirkman’s writing and Sean Phillips’ art, they had to adapt it to fit the MCU’s distinct lore.
The series is notable not only for its creative liberties but also for featuring beloved characters from the MCU. Shang-Chi and Katy, who haven’t graced the screen since their 2021 film, make a significant appearance. Andrews expressed excitement about incorporating these characters, underscoring that their inclusion was seen as a “gift” rather than a pressure filled task to do them justice.
Regarding the show’s level of violence, Andrews assured that while the series embraces its TV-MA rating, the creators strived for a balanced approach that blends shock value with emotional storytelling. The focus was on achieving impactful drama without resorting to gratuitous content.
Marvel Television has seen substantial success in animated adaptations with series like “X-Men ’97” and “Eyes of Wakanda.” This trend of high-quality animations opens possibilities for additional characters and stories to be explored in future projects. Winderbaum expressed excitement about the potential to delve into various characters, many of whom haven’t yet been featured in live-action formats.
Enthusiasm for the expansion of the animated Marvel universe is evident, with Winderbaum hinting at numerous characters waiting for their spotlight. While specifics remain under wraps, the success of “Marvel Zombies” may well pave the way for more stories and surprises in subsequent seasons.
As Marvel Zombies prepares to premiere, it promises to offer a blend of adventure, gore, and emotional depth, captivating audiences with its new take on the zombie scenario and beloved MCU characters. Fans, eager for new content, are encouraged to subscribe to Disney+ and join in on the excitement as this imaginative series unfolds.