The newly released limited series, "Echo" on Disney+, has concluded its five episodes, leaving a seismic imprint on the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). The gritty show, described as a "resounding success," witnesses the series protagonist, Maya Lopez, portrayed by Alaqua Cox, confronting her adoptive father, Kingpin, played by Vincent D'Onofrio at a Choctaw Powwow. Echo showcases Maya’s newfound powers that are deeply rooted in her Choctaw heritage, allowing her to channel her ancestors’ abilities and demonstrating a psychic power to alleviate Kingpin's rage. A critical mid-credits scene hints at Kingpin's potential political aspirations, setting up for his appearance in the "Daredevil: Born Again" series, where he may run for Mayor of New York City. Additionally, within the series, Daredevil makes an appearance, establishing connections that will likely be explored in future projects.

Echo utilizes more mature, intense themes akin to the former Netflix Marvel series, raising questions regarding the Marvel Netflix shows' status within the MCU. The show also includes familiar aspects from the comics, such as the appearance of the Black Knife Cartel, and nods to previous MCU entries, indicating Echo's deep roots in existing Marvel lore.

Are the Netflix Marvel shows now considered canonical in the MCU?

The inclusion of characters and story elements from Netflix's Marvel series in "Echo" suggests a connection with the MCU. Executive producer Richie Palmer has likened it to how comic book writers respect previous stories while advancing the narrative, indicating an honor of the Netflix series' legacy within the MCU's context. Furthermore, the repositioning of these shows within the official MCU timeline on Disney+ can be seen as an additional sign of their canonical integration.

Even before Echo's arrival on Disney+, the character Maya Lopez debuted in the "Hawkeye" series, marking her entry into the MCU. Her story arcs and interactions with characters like Kingpin and Daredevil have been leveraged to deepen her relationship with the greater Marvel universe. The events of Echo and its tie-in with 'Daredevil: Born Again' tease a robust integration of Echo's narrative with upcoming storylines in a transforming MCU landscape.