Marvel Studios Confirms Third Special Presentation Coming to Disney+
Marvel Studios is officially reviving its Special Presentation format with a third entry set to debut on Disney+. Since Phase 4, these hour-long specials have introduced new characters and expanded different corners of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). With Daredevil: Born Again on the horizon, the latest addition to this format will focus on one of Marvel’s most ruthless antiheroes—The Punisher.
Marvel Studios’ Three Disney+ Special Presentations
1. Werewolf by Night (2022)
The first Special Presentation, Werewolf by Night, introduced supernatural elements into the MCU. Featuring Gael García Bernal as Jack Russell (the titular Werewolf by Night), the special also debuted Man-Thing and Elsa Bloodstone. Though this corner of the MCU remains largely unexplored, fans hope Jack Russell will reappear in Avengers: Doomsday or another horror-themed project.
2. The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special (2022)
Unlike Werewolf by Night, the Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special revisited established characters. This festive story focused on Drax and Mantis’ attempt to cheer up Peter Quill by gifting him the real Kevin Bacon. Set between Avengers: Endgame and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, the special offered lighthearted moments while subtly setting up future MCU storylines. With Star-Lord teased to return, this might not be the last time we see the Guardians.
3. Punisher (Upcoming)
Jon Bernthal’s Punisher is making a brutal return with his own Special Presentation following his appearance in Daredevil: Born Again. Brad Winderbaum, Marvel Television head, confirmed that Frank Castle’s solo story will expand his role in the MCU’s street-level narratives. While details remain scarce, expectations are high for a violent and gritty exploration of the Punisher’s brutal justice.
What’s Next for Marvel’s Special Presentations?
The Special Presentation format provides Marvel with an opportunity to introduce or further develop characters without requiring full-fledged series. With rumors circulating about potential entries for Ghost Rider, Silver Surfer, and even more supernatural characters, this storytelling method may become a key part of the MCU’s Disney+ strategy moving forward.
