Marvel Studios is set to launch its first project of 2026, the streaming series Wonder Man, premiering on Disney+ this week with all eight episodes available to binge. The show, which features Yahya Abdul-Mateen II in the lead role as Simon Williams, promises a unique blend of superhero action and Hollywood satire, stepping away from the franchise’s usual multiverse narratives.
Wonder Man, created by Destin Daniel Cretton and Andrew Guest, is only the second TV project under the Marvel Spotlight banner, following 2024’s Echo. This initiative emphasizes character-driven stories with smaller stakes, focusing instead on personal journeys rather than the broader Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) continuity. Simon Williams, a character with a complex comic history who originally appeared as a villain in 1964’s Avengers No. 9, finds himself navigating the film industry while concealing his own superpowers.
Despite its intriguing premise, Wonder Man arrives after several delays due to the 2023 writers and actors strikes and a broader restructuring of Marvel’s content strategy. The series was briefly shelved post-production, paralleling its thematic reexaminations within a crowded TV landscape already familiar with meta-commentaries on Hollywood from other series like HBO Max’s The Franchise and Apple TV’s The Studio. This backdrop suggests that while Wonder Man may resonate with audiences, its distinctiveness might be overshadowed by other recent releases exploring similar themes.
The storyline revolves around Simon’s struggle to establish himself as a movie star while grappling with his identity as a superhero. With a past intertwined with the Avengers and a rich legacy in comic book lore, including his ties to various major characters, Wonder Man holds potential for broader narratives in the MCU beyond its self-contained series.
Additionally, the show reintroduces Trevor Slattery, portrayed by Ben Kingsley, known for his comedic role in Iron Man 3. Slattery is set to assist Simon on his Hollywood journey, adding an element of continuity as both characters explore the glitzy yet harsh realities of show business. Their narrative arc stems from a collaboration between Cretton and Marvel executives, who sought to merge concepts surrounding both characters’ experiences in the industry.
Wonder Man’s long-awaited debut has generated buzz, particularly after receiving positive early reviews, earning a noteworthy 93% on Rotten Tomatoes. As Marvel seeks to revitalize its storytelling approach, the series may provide the much-needed breath of fresh air it aims for amidst the expansive landscape of superhero media. Fans and newcomers alike are encouraged to tune in and experience the unique narrative that Wonder Man has to offer.