Is There a New Episode of "What If…?"

No, there is not currently a new episode of “What If…?” available. Season 2 concluded on December 30, 2023, and as of October 26, 2024, no specific release date for Season 3 has been announced.

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What to Expect: Diving Deep into the “What If…?” Universe

The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has consistently captivated audiences with its interconnected storylines and compelling characters. “What If…?”, the animated anthology series on Disney+, takes this established foundation and twists it, exploring alternate realities born from pivotal moments in the MCU timeline. Each episode reimagines significant events, examining the ripple effects of different choices made by familiar heroes and villains. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the show’s current status and what viewers can anticipate regarding future episodes.

Understanding the Appeal of Alternate Realities

The beauty of “What If…?” lies in its unrestrained exploration of possibilities. By removing the constraints of established canon, the show can deliver surprising and often darker scenarios. Imagine Peggy Carter receiving the Super Soldier Serum instead of Steve Rogers, or T’Challa becoming Star-Lord. These are just a few examples of the exciting premises explored in the first two seasons. The show’s success stems from its ability to tap into the audience’s inherent curiosity: what if things had gone differently?

Recapping Seasons 1 and 2

Season 1 premiered in August 2021 and introduced viewers to The Watcher, a cosmic being observing the multiverse but sworn never to interfere. The season presented a variety of alternate realities, ranging from lighthearted scenarios to devastating outcomes. The culmination of Season 1 saw the creation of the Guardians of the Multiverse, a team assembled by The Watcher to combat the threat of Infinity Ultron.

Season 2, released in December 2023, continued the anthology format, exploring different branching timelines with fresh takes on classic Marvel stories. This season expanded the scope of the series, featuring more obscure characters and delving into less frequently explored corners of the MCU. While some praised the expanded narrative scope, others felt it lacked the punch of the initial season.

Season 3 and Beyond: What We Know (and What We Don’t)

While no new episodes are currently available, fans are eagerly anticipating news about Season 3. Several factors influence the development and release schedule of “What If…?”, making it challenging to predict when new content will arrive.

The Status of Season 3 Development

Marvel Studios has officially announced that “What If…?” will have a third season. However, concrete details regarding production progress, specific storylines, and a potential release date remain scarce. Voice actors have suggested that some work has been completed, but the complex nature of animation and the ever-evolving MCU landscape make it difficult to pinpoint a precise timeline. Speculation suggests a possible release in late 2024 or early 2025, but this remains unconfirmed.

Potential Storylines and Characters

Given the vast expanse of the MCU, the possibilities for “What If…?” storylines are virtually limitless. Fans have speculated about episodes featuring:

A world where Doctor Strange remains a surgeon: Exploring the ramifications of not becoming Sorcerer Supreme.
A universe where the Snap never happened: Investigating the consequences of Thanos’ plan being thwarted.
Alternate versions of newer characters: Showcasing “What If…?” scenarios involving characters introduced in Phase 4 and beyond.

The creative team behind the show has expressed interest in exploring storylines connected to the X-Men and Fantastic Four once they are fully integrated into the MCU.

The Impact of the Multiverse Saga

The ongoing Multiverse Saga in the MCU directly impacts the “What If…?” series. The events depicted in films like Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness and Spider-Man: No Way Home highlight the interconnectedness of alternate realities. “What If…?” serves as a valuable tool for Marvel Studios, allowing them to introduce new concepts and characters within the multiverse without disrupting the main MCU timeline. It’s likely that future seasons will continue to tie into the larger Multiverse Saga narrative in subtle yet significant ways.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About “What If…?”

Here are some common questions surrounding the animated series “What If…?”

Is “What If…?” canon to the MCU?

Generally, no. The events depicted in “What If…?” are considered alternate realities, branching off from the main MCU timeline. However, elements from the series have occasionally bled into the live-action MCU, blurring the lines of canonicity. For example, Captain Carter’s appearance in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness originated from the “What If…?” episode where Peggy Carter receives the Super Soldier Serum. The key takeaway is that the primary MCU timeline remains distinct from the alternate realities explored in the series, although crossovers are possible.
Who is The Watcher?

The Watcher, voiced by Jeffrey Wright, is a powerful cosmic being who observes the multiverse. He possesses vast knowledge and awareness but is sworn not to interfere in the events he witnesses. He serves as the narrator and guide throughout the “What If…?” series, occasionally breaking his oath when the fate of the multiverse is at stake. The Watcher’s role is crucial for framing the alternate realities and providing context to the audience.
How many seasons of “What If…?” are planned?

Marvel Studios has not explicitly stated a definitive number of seasons planned for “What If…?”. However, given the vastness of the MCU and the show’s popularity, it’s likely that several more seasons are in development or being considered. Officially, three seasons have been confirmed.
Where can I watch “What If…?”

Both seasons of “What If…?” are exclusively available on Disney+. A subscription is required to access the series.
Are there any spin-offs of “What If…?” planned?

As of now, there are no officially announced spin-offs of “What If…?”. However, the popularity of certain characters and storylines within the series could potentially lead to future spin-off projects. The “What If…?” universe is ripe with opportunities for further exploration.
Will any live-action MCU actors voice their animated counterparts in “What If…?”

Many live-action MCU actors reprise their roles in “What If…?” by providing voice work for their animated counterparts. This adds a layer of authenticity and familiarity for viewers. However, some roles are recast due to scheduling conflicts or other reasons. Having original cast members voice their characters enhances the viewing experience.
What is the animation style of “What If…?”

“What If…?” utilizes a distinct animation style that blends traditional 2D animation with 3D elements. This unique approach gives the series a visually striking and dynamic feel. The animation style has received mixed reviews, with some praising its artistic flair and others criticizing its occasional stiffness.
Are the “What If…?” stories based on existing Marvel comics?

The “What If…?” series draws inspiration from the Marvel Comics series of the same name. However, the animated series often deviates from the comic book storylines, offering fresh and unexpected twists. The comics serve as a foundation, but the show takes creative liberties to deliver unique narratives.
How does “What If…?” impact the larger MCU narrative?

While “What If…?” primarily exists outside the main MCU timeline, it can introduce new concepts, characters, and storylines that may eventually influence the live-action universe. The series also allows Marvel Studios to experiment with different ideas and gauge audience reactions before potentially incorporating them into the core MCU narrative. Think of it as a testing ground for potential future storylines.
Who are the Guardians of the Multiverse?

The Guardians of the Multiverse is a team of heroes from different realities assembled by The Watcher in Season 1 to combat Infinity Ultron. The team consists of Captain Carter, Star-Lord T’Challa, Doctor Strange Supreme, Gamora, Party Thor, and Black Panther Killmonger. They represent a united front against a multiversal threat.
Are there any Easter eggs or references in “What If…?” that connect to other MCU properties?

“What If…?” is filled with Easter eggs and references to other MCU films and television series. These hidden details reward attentive viewers and further connect the series to the larger MCU. Spotting these connections enhances the overall viewing experience.
Will we see more of Captain Carter in future MCU projects?

Captain Carter’s appearance in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness suggests that she may play a larger role in the future of the MCU. Her popularity and the intriguing nature of her character make her a strong candidate for future appearances in live-action films or television series. Her story is far from over.

In conclusion, while there isn’t a new episode of “What If…?” available right now, the prospect of future seasons and the potential for interconnectedness with the larger MCU make it a series worth keeping an eye on. Stay tuned for updates and prepare for more exciting explorations of alternate realities in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Is There a New Episode of “What If…?”