Marvel movie fans have been introduced to a wide range of new characters in Phase 4 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). The Eternals, Echo, Agatha Harkness, Yelena Bulova, Shang-Chi, and Xu Xialing are among the recently introduced characters. Moon Knight and possibly Blade have also made their debut. Now, fans can look forward to the highly anticipated arrival of Nova, a character set to make his first appearance in the MCU.
On March 24th, 2022, it was initially reported that Marvel is working on a project centered around Nova. However, it’s important to note that Marvel has not officially confirmed this news. According to sources, Sabir Pirzada, who has written episodes for the Moon Knight series, is rumored to be the writer for the Nova project.
Nova is a well-known character in Marvel comics and has been mentioned by fans as a possibility for Phase 4 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. However, there is limited official information available about Marvel’s specific plans for a Nova project at this time.
Nova Explained: The Basics
Nova is a superhero who belongs to a group called the Nova Corps. They are similar to the Green Lantern Corps in the Marvel Universe. The members of the Nova Corps are granted the powerful Nova Force, which they use to protect the galaxy from various dangers. Within the Nova Corps, there are different ranks such as Corpsmen, Centurions, and the powerful Nova Prime. They are guided by the Xandarian Worldmind, an advanced computer that holds the collective knowledge and wisdom of the Nova Corps throughout history.
Typically, the Nova Corps includes many members, but the stories often focus on two Earth heroes: Richard Rider and Sam Alexander. These heroes have taken on the role of Nova Corpsmen and have played crucial roles in protecting the Marvel Universe during challenging times. They have carried the responsibility of the Nova Corps when the galaxy faced great threats.
What is Marvel’s Nova project?
According to Hollywood sources, a Nova project is currently being developed by Marvel, although specific details about the nature of the project are unknown. Marvel has recently expanded into the realm of streaming with successful miniseries on Disney Plus. This leaves open the possibility that Nova could either be a feature film or a TV series. Considering the positive reception of series like WandaVision, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, and Loki, it would not be surprising if Nova were to receive his own series.
In addition, Nova could also be part of Marvel’s cinematic projects. While many of Marvel’s Phase 4 releases have already been announced, the future beyond that is still unknown. Marvel may choose to continue with Phase 4 or start a new Phase 5. In either case, Nova has the potential to be a feature film in Marvel’s cinematic future.
Who Is Nova?
Marvel’s Nova project will focus on the superhero Nova, also known as Richard Rider. Nova’s official origin story was introduced in the comic book titled “The Man Called Nova #1,” which was released in 1976.
In Marvel’s Nova, the character Richard Rider is a human from New York City who becomes a superhero. He is chosen by a dying member of an interstellar police force called the Nova Corps to take on their mantle. This grants him superhuman powers and a costume. Initially unsure of how to use his powers, Richard learns and grows as a superhero, eventually joining the Nova Corps. It’s worth noting that the character’s origin story bears similarities to DC Comics’ Green Lantern.
Marvel Comics introduced the character Nova in 1976, and he had his own series until 1979. After that, he made occasional appearances in titles like Fantastic Four and Rom the Spaceknight. However, Nova gained renewed popularity in the late 1980s and became more prominently featured in cosmic and space-oriented storylines, including Annihilation and The Thanos Imperative.
How Will The Marvel Cinematic Universe Fit Nova In?
We can only speculate at this point, but it is likely that Nova’s entry into the Marvel Cinematic Universe will be connected to The Guardians of the Galaxy in some way. In the comics, Nova has a strong association with the cosmic adventures of the Guardians and even has a romantic relationship with Gamora. Considering the current status of Gamora in the MCU, where she is a time-displaced version without memories of her past, there is potential for conflict and storytelling opportunities.
It’s worth noting that Marvel has already made a nod to Nova in some capacity, although the specifics are unclear.
Who will be the cast of Marvel’s New Project?
As of now, only the writer for the Nova project, Pirzada, has been confirmed, and no actors have been announced. However, there is a possibility that members of the Nova Corps who have appeared in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) could make a return. Reilly’s Dey, in particular, made a significant impact, and given his importance to Richard Rider’s story, it would make sense for him to reprise his role in the upcoming project.
Additionally, Irani Rael, portrayed by Glenn Close, also appeared in Guardians of the Galaxy as the Nova Prime during that specific time period. Her character was known for being stern yet thoughtful, defending her people and understanding the power of the Orb. Given her excellent portrayal, fans would certainly enjoy seeing Glenn Close reprise her role as Irani Rael in the Nova project.
While the involvement of other Nova Corps members remains uncertain, the casting for the main role of Nova is still a mystery. Given Nova’s youthful age in his origin story, it is likely that a younger actor will be chosen for the portrayal. Some young and talented actors who have been speculated for the role include Aidan Gallagher, Dylan O’Brien, Ryan Potter, Logan Lerman, and Asa Butterfield. There have also been rumors suggesting that Fionn Whitehead, known for his role in Dunkirk, may be considered for the role of Nova.
When can we expect Marvel new project?
Unfortunately, the official confirmation of Nova by Marvel or Disney is still pending. As a result, the exact timing of Nova’s appearance remains uncertain. Marvel already has a lineup of films planned for 2023, including The Marvels, Guardians of the Galaxy 3, and Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania. The subsequent film is expected to be an untitled Fantastic Four film. If Nova is to be featured in a standalone film, it is likely to be released in 2024 or later.
Indeed, Marvel’s schedule for 2022-2023 is already packed with series such as Ironheart, Armor Wars, and an untitled Wakanda series, following the release of Secret Invasion. Considering Marvel’s emphasis on series releases, there is a possibility that a Nova series could be included in the late 2023 lineup, as it would provide an opportunity to explore the character and expand the Marvel Cinematic Universe on the small screen. However, until Marvel officially confirms the project, the exact timing and format of Nova’s debut remain uncertain.
While it’s true that Nova has not been officially confirmed by Marvel and production has not started, it is likely that fans will have to wait until late 2023 or even 2024 for the project to be released, regardless of its nature. However, there is a possibility that Nova could make his first appearance in another MCU project before his standalone debut. Guardians of the Galaxy 3 in 2023 or Secret Invasion in 2022 are potential candidates for Nova’s introduction, considering his ties to those storylines. Until Marvel makes official announcements, we can only speculate on when and where Nova will make his MCU debut.
