Daredevil Showrunner Reveals Why Netflix Series Lacked MCU References—And Why That Was a Good Thing

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As a movie enthusiast, I must say, the new “Daredevil: Born Again,” wrapping up its first season this month on the 2025 TV schedule, stands out significantly from the original “Daredevil” series, which was previously streamed on Netflix. The key distinction lies in the creative minds behind these shows. Marvel Studios is the mastermind behind “Born Again,” whereas the original “Daredevil” was under the guidance of Marvel Television, a division that no longer exists and operated independently.

This separation seems to be the reason why the original series lacked the extensive MCU references, making me all the more grateful that “Born Again” hasn’t been burdened by such constraints.

According to Steven DeKnight, who oversaw Daredevil Season 1, he addressed a query from a fan on X (previously known as Twitter) concerning whether the series, accessible with a Disney+ subscription, had any plans for increased connections to the MCU or if it was designed to be part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe from the outset.

Steven DeKnight, the showrunner for Daredevil Season 1, responded to a fan on X (formerly Twitter) about whether there were any plans for the series, which can now be streamed via Disney+, to have closer ties with the MCU or if it was initially intended to be part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Initially, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and Marvel Television didn’t see eye-to-eye. Our interaction with the characters was quite restricted, leaving us largely confined within our designated creative spaces. However, this wasn’t a problem; instead, it pushed us to focus intensely on character development rather than relying on flashy appearances or tricks.

For those not deeply immersed in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), it wouldn’t have been surprising if they weren’t aware that Daredevil shared the same universe as films like Iron Man and Thor. The series only made indirect references to this connection, such as when Wilson Fisk’s right-hand man Wesley suggested that Daredevil might be so formidable if he had an iron suit or a magic hammer. Essentially, it seemed like a standalone production. Connecting directly with other Marvel Netflix shows like Jessica Jones, Luke Cage, Iron Fist, The Defenders miniseries, and The Punisher was easy, but going beyond that posed challenges.

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Although it’s important to note that Daredevil: Born Again isn’t heavily loaded with Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) references due to being a Marvel Studios production, it can still be viewed as a standalone series. However, we’ve seen Charlie Cox reappear as Matt Murdock in Spider-Man: No Way Home and She-Hulk: Attorney at Law, Vincent D’Onofrio returning as Wilson Fisk in Hawkeye, and both characters appearing in Echo. While there might be complications when it comes to using Kingpin in a Spider-Man film, the Daredevil characters are generally being integrated harmoniously into the broader MCU instead of being confined to their own separate domain.

The second season of “Daredevil: Born Again” is slated for release on Disney+ in March 2026. As for whether Matt Murdock, Foggy Nelson, or any other characters close to them will appear in future Marvel films or shows, there’s no news yet. I really hope so, as the integration has been far more enjoyable compared to the constraints experienced in the initial “Daredevil” series.

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2025-04-29 17:40