Eyes of Wakanda: All the New MCU Villains in Marvel’s Phase 6 Opener

What Is Eyes of Wakanda About?
Eyes of Wakanda is Marvel Studios’ latest Disney+ animated series, officially launching Phase 6 of the MCU. Released on August 1, the four-episode show is a historical journey through Wakanda’s past, following warriors on missions to recover stolen vibranium. With Ryan Coogler as executive producer, the series combines striking visuals with deep world-building.
How Many Villains Are in Eyes of Wakanda?
The series introduces seven villains, breaking the MCU record for most antagonists in a Phase-opening TV show. For comparison, WandaVision began Phase 4 with three villains, while Secret Invasion kicked off Phase 5 with six.
Who Are the Villains in Eyes of Wakanda?
- The Lion – Once a Wakandan Royal Guard, Nkati becomes a warlord obsessed with creating his own “Pride of the Lion” state. He is ultimately defeated by the warrior Noni.
- The Shieldmaiden – A Viking warrior aligned with the Lion, she clashes with Noni but survives to fight another day.
- The Samoan Warrior – A brutal ally of the Lion, recognizable by his necklace of shards and warrior headpiece, who is slain in battle.
- The Ronin Swordsman – A Japanese fighter in painted armor who serves as one of the Lion’s lieutenants.
- The Blademaster – A cloaked figure skilled with multiple blades, representing the Lion’s vision of global unity through power.
- Achilles – The Greek hero from the Trojan War, who becomes an enemy after a betrayal by the Wakandan warrior Memnon. His downfall comes from his infamous weak spot, the heel.
- The Horde – A terrifying alien race introduced in the final episode. Known in Marvel Comics as destroyers of Celestials, their arrival hints at future MCU connections to Eternals.
Why Is This Important for the MCU Timeline?
By tying into different historical eras and introducing the Horde, Eyes of Wakanda expands the scope of Wakanda’s story while teasing connections to larger cosmic threats. With seven new villains, the series sets the stage for Phase 6’s higher stakes and possibly new links to the Eternals and upcoming Avengers movies.