Who is Hercules in the Marvel Cinematic Universe?

The latest superhero film from Marvel Studios, Thor: Love and Thunder, sees a crossover between Norse and Greek mythology and a God Butcher looking to destroy all gods. As the latest Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) project, after Moon Knight, introduced the next ancient mythology, many wondered when we could expect to see more Greek fabled heroes, such as Hercules.

As this article briefly discusses Hercules' origins, both in the comic books and the MCU, we'll notify you with a SPOILER ALERT as several plot points from Thor: Love and Thunder will be mentioned. Likewise, here's what we know about the Olympian legend Hercules and his involvement in the MCU.

Hercules' comic book and MCU origins

Hercules' comic book and MCU origins are slightly different from its Ancient Greek mythology origins but how it will differ between the comic book and MCU versions remains to be seen. Hercules is the demi-god son of Zeus, the Greek God of the sky, both appearing in Thor: Love and Thunder.

Debuting in the Avengers comic book issue 10 in November 1964, his appearance was fairly limited until he reappeared in Journey into Mystery Annual issue #1 from 1965. Developing a friendly rivalry with Thor Odinson, the God of Thunder, and kinship, he became a valuable ally to Thor throughout his comic book, eventually joining the Avengers.

While their rivalry is mainly based on which is more powerful, the Olympian demi-god is more than willing to assist his allies in overcoming dangerous threats, whether on Earth or off-world. Hercules had joined forces with other notable comic book team-ups and groups, including the Secret Avengers, S.H.I.E.L.D., Gods of Olympus, and the God Squad.

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While plenty of comic book lore delves into Hercules' backstory, how he'll be portrayed in the MCU remains a mystery. He appears in the first post-credit scene for Thor: Love and Thunder as his father, Zeus, expresses his displacement over the Gods' representation of superheroes.

As Zeus tries to understand why no person fears Gods, it may have alluded that he will send Hercules in pursuit of Thor in a future MCU project, with the potential of it being the next Thor film. As such, it's worth noting that Hercules' gear and equipment are similar to its comic book counterpart, from the helm to the weapon he wields.

Hercules' comic and MCU superpowers explained

Undoubtedly, Hercules is likely to possess similar powers to his comic book version, including his famed godlike strength and stamina. While some powers are identical to Thor's, there is the potential for changes in his live-action appearances.

Aside from having godly strength and stamina, Hercules has a mystical resistance to physical damage and injury, regenerative healing properties, and possessing immortality as he cannot be killed through traditional means as he is a demi-god.

Much like Thor, Hercules is well-versed in multiple languages, including Earthly languages and various alien dialects. Hercules is also a fierce warrior, having mastered Greek wrestling and boxing, and he's also efficient with the bow and arrow, much like Clint Barton/Hawkeye, although it's not known if he has bested Hawkeye.

Thor: Love and Thunder will be released in theatres worldwide on 8th July 2022; however, in the meantime, catch up on Thor's MCU journey on Disney+.

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Featured image courtesy of Marvel Comics.