What is the Marvel Cinematic Universe?
The Marvel Cinematic Universe, or MCU, is a connected series of superhero films and TV shows produced by Marvel Studios, starting with Iron Man in 2008. It is the highest-grossing film franchise of all time.
The MCU's movies share characters, events and storylines, with heroes appearing in each other's films. It is organized into phases. The Infinity Saga, covering Phases One to Three, ended with Avengers: Infinity War in 2018 and Avengers: Endgame in 2019, which became one of the highest-grossing films ever.
The franchise expanded with TV series on Disney+, such as WandaVision and Loki. Kevin Feige, president of Marvel Studios, has guided the franchise since its start. Disney bought Marvel Entertainment in 2009.
The Multiverse Saga
The current storyline, called the Multiverse Saga, includes films such as Spider-Man: No Way Home and Deadpool & Wolverine. Avengers: Doomsday is scheduled for December 2026, followed by Avengers: Secret Wars in 2027. Robert Downey Jr., who played Iron Man, returns to play the villain Doctor Doom.
Did You Know?
Post-credits scenes, short scenes after the end credits, became an MCU tradition, teasing future films and rewarding patient viewers.