In a surprising turn, Marvel has officially decided to remove Dane Whitman, also known as Black Knight, from its cinematic universe. This move underscores the growing disconnect between the studio and its fan-favorite characters, particularly from the Eternals film.
Black Knight’s Departure from the MCU
Dane Whitman, portrayed by Kit Harington, was seen as a significant character within the Marvel franchise. However, with the Eternals being sidelined even in 2026, Whitman’s potential appears to be lost. Fans have expressed disappointment at not seeing the full scope of his abilities, which were only hinted at in the 2021 film.
Who is Black Knight?
Black Knight’s rich comic book history adds depth to his character. He belongs to a lineage of knights, originating from Sir Percy of Scandia during Camelot. This connection ties him to the broader Arthurian legends present in the Marvel universe.
- Black Knight is the third character to hold the title, following his uncle Nathan Garrett, a former supervillain.
- Whitman was tasked by his uncle to uphold the family name in a positive light, a call to redemption.
- While he lacks superpowers, his exceptional skills in swordsmanship and martial arts are notable.
- He wields the Ebony Blade, a cursed weapon that can cut effortlessly, absorb magic, and deflect energy.
Despite these impressive attributes, the character’s exploration remained shallow in the Eternals. Many comic enthusiasts anticipated more significant character development and arcs that could link him deeper with the MCU’s narrative.
The Eternals and MCU’s Missed Opportunities
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the Eternals’ trajectory, limiting their growth within the MCU. Despite the film’s unique approach differing from the traditional Marvel formula, the fan base did not receive it poorly. Many consider that without further storytelling, the film—and its characters, including Black Knight—could not realize their full potential.
Key Information about Eternals
| Director | Chloé Zhao |
|---|---|
| Major Cast | Gemma Chan, Richard Madden, Angelina Jolie, Salma Hayek, Kumail Nanjiani |
| Rotten Tomatoes Score | 47% Audience, 77% Critics |
| Box Office | $402 million |
Marvel Studios’ decision to abandon characters like Black Knight raises questions about the future of the Eternals and other unconventional heroes. As the franchise evolves, fans can only hope for a resurgence in focus on the characters worth exploring.
