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The production of Daredevil: Born Again, the upcoming Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) series, is undergoing significant changes. One notable shift in the production approach marks a first for the popular MCU franchise.
Daredevil, originally featured in a highly successful Netflix series, developed a dedicated fanbase during its run from 2015 until its cancellation in 2018. Following fan outcry for a revival, Marvel Studios decided to bring back Charlie Cox’s Daredevil, announcing the aptly named Daredevil: Born Again.
However, the production faced challenges and underwent significant behind-the-scenes changes, including terminations and a complete creative overhaul, reportedly at the direction of Kevin Feige. Additional details about these restructuring efforts have been revealed, with The Hollywood Reporter noting a key first for the MCU. Dario Scardapane has been appointed as the showrunner for Daredevil: Born Again, marking the first time an MCU show has officially appointed someone to this traditional role. Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead have also been enlisted to direct episodes in the first season.
Prior to this announcement, Marvel Studios had typically operated their Disney+ series in a manner similar to movie sets, forgoing conventional roles like showrunners and bypassing the need for pilots and show bibles. Marvel Studios has now reevaluated its approach to creating content for the Disney+ platform, with Scardapane serving as a fitting inaugural choice. In addition to his recent work on Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan, the newly appointed showrunner also worked on the Punisher Netflix series, a property that fans have expressed interest in reviving. Benson and Moorhead also bring experience from their involvement with the Disney+ show Loki, instilling confidence in their contributions.
The hope within the production team, led by Feige and others, is likely that these changes in leadership and structure will better address the well-documented challenges of integrating Marvel TV shows into the MCU. This sentiment aligns with comments from Daredevil star Vincent D’Onofrio, who expressed a positive outlook on the situation. He stated, “Every cool project I’ve been involved with has evolved constantly during pre-production, production, and post. It’s just reported on these days as if it’s big news. It’s not. It’s simply a bunch of creatives doing their best to get it right. It’s a constant in this business. I wouldn’t have it any other way. Frankly, I’d be worried if we were settling for less.”
Despite signs of a solid plan in place, fans of Daredevil may still have concerns about the creative changes occurring with the show. With delays due to the shakeup and the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike affecting filming schedules, audiences will have to wait some time before they can assess how well these new plans pan out.
Daredevil: Born Again is set to be released on Disney+.