Disney has recently disclosed details about the much-anticipated second season of Loki, with particular emphasis on the pivotal role Jonathan Majors is expected to undertake. Amidst swirling debates surrounding the actor, Majors is set to significantly influence the upcoming season's narrative.
Majors, who marked his debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) portraying "He Who Remains," a variant of Kang, in the final episode of Loki's inaugural season, is projected to play a substantial part in the show's forthcoming sequel as Kang the Conqueror.
However, the actor's position in the MCU has been shrouded in uncertainty following an aggravated assault charge. Despite the controversy surrounding Majors, the momentum for Loki season 2 is picking up speed as fans eagerly anticipate its release on October 6, 2023.
The show's initial season emerged as one of the top-rated Disney+ offerings from Marvel.
Jonathan Majors leads the way: Disney unveils cast details for Loki season 2 amid controversy
Disney has released an official announcement disclosing the cast details for the anticipated Loki season 2. Spearheading the line-up is Tom Hiddleston, with Jonathan Majors, Owen Wilson, and Ke Huy Quan following suit, each introduced by the preposition "with."
The unique usage of "with" in the cast listing is an industry norm, signifying the significance of the actors, irrespective of their screen time. In the context of Loki season 2, this might not entirely pertain to Owen Wilson, who is projected to have a considerable role.
However, this attribution could resonate more with Ke Huy Quan. Making his entry into the MCU, Quan is presumed to have a lesser part in the series, debuting as a TVA officer.
Jonathan Majors' scenario paints a different picture. Amidst his ongoing legal predicaments with a court hearing impending in August, he is anticipated to be seen in at least three episodes of the upcoming season, suggesting a continued influential presence in the storyline.
Marvel's dilemma: The uncertain future of Jonathan Majors' Kang in Loki season 2 amidst controversy and legal issues
Despite his dismissal from various upcoming projects and endorsements, Marvel has yet to comment on the future of Majors' Kang in the MCU.
Given the revelation of Victor Timely, another Kang variant, in the post-credits scene of Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania, Majors is poised for a notable presence in the impending season.
Nonetheless, the situation presents a dilemma for Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige. Filming for the show was already completed by Majors' arrest, and his portrayal of Kang was intended to be central to the unfolding Multiverse Saga.
The studio may decide to recast Kang for the upcoming Avengers: The Kang Dynasty, but it's too late to replace Majors for the current season of Loki. Moreover, Majors' legal status is still pending.
Marvel could resort to post-production changes to downsize Kang's role, though this could potentially compromise the series' quality by leaving Majors' work largely unseen.
As marketing efforts for Loki season 2 commence, it will be intriguing to observe Marvel's promotional approach concerning Jonathan Majors, Victor Timely, and Kang the Conqueror.
The second season of Loki will start streaming on Disney+ on October 6, 2023.