The Marvel Cinematic Universe is full of memorable heroes, and Iron Man, played by Robert Downey Jr., is a standout. He played a huge role in shaping the franchise. Recently, however, fans have been debating a new question about his impact.
The question at hand is whether Iron Man is the ‘anchor being’ of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. For those who may not know, Deadpool & Wolverine introduced this new concept to the MCU.
An ‘anchor being’ is a powerful individual whose presence is essential for their universe’s stability. In Deadpool 3, Wolverine, famously played by Hugh Jackman, was shown to be the anchor of the X-Men universe. His death led to the gradual collapse of that world.
Kevin Feige Responds Cryptically to Iron Man Question
The debate started when Kevin Feige, was asked by Brandon Davis from Phase Zero if Iron Man was the ‘anchor’ of the universe, much like Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine in X-Men movies. Instead of giving a clear answer, the Marvel boss just smiled and called the question interesting. He said:
The fact that you even asked that makes me happy, and that the term has ignited your imagination to even ask that question.
This mysterious reply has led many to wildly speculate. Iron Man was crucial for the Avengers and the whole Infinity Saga. His sacrifice in Avengers: Endgame was a big deal that shook the MCU.
However, many fans think it’s unlikely to see Iron Man as the MCU’s anchor. They argue that his sacrifice in Avengers: Endgame showed that the universe can continue to function without him. So, according to them, Iron Man was important but not crucial for the MCU’s survival.
The answer is pretty easy: no. In Loki, Ravonna told Mr Laufeyson that the events of End Game were supposed to take place and Doctor Strange in Infinity War said out of a bajillion possibilities, that was the only way they would win. Therefore, there's no way Iron Man is the…
— NBA Jah (@JahlilWill) July 29, 2024
The new multiverse concept in recent films has made things more complicated, with some also suggesting that each universe might have its own ‘anchor.’ Even though the movie doesn’t directly confirm this idea, it’s interesting to think about. As the MCU explores the multiverse more, the idea of anchor beings might become even more important.
The Real Anchor of the MCU — According to Fans
Now that Iron Man is gone, it’s unclear who or what keeps the MCU together. Some people think it might be a powerful cosmic being, while others believe it could be a group of heroes working together. But most think it’s Doctor Strange. Check out their fan reactions:
https://twitter.com/wichyfuhyobih/status/1818085087218713006
It’s Strange
— Kenneth Fornos (@kfornoz) July 30, 2024
Prob doctor strange tbh
— John (@gjjggkhgguknv) July 29, 2024
Not Doctor strange
I'm surprised they have anchor of that character which they share the Rights and not Doctor strange which they have all rights too— ᱬ NM ۞ ➃ Ⓐ ⨂ (@itsokloll) July 29, 2024
I think it's Dr. Strange
— Nikolai Rodriguez (@rod67780) July 30, 2024
The MCU has now evolved beyond a single character. While Iron Man will always hold a special place in fans’ hearts, the future of the franchise lies in the hands of a other heroes, perhaps?
Deadpool & Wolverine is currently screening in theatres!
Frequently asked questions
What is an ‘anchor being’ in the MCU?
Per the article, an ‘anchor being’ is a concept introduced by Deadpool & Wolverine, describing a powerful individual whose presence keeps their universe stable. The film establishes Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine as the anchor of the X-Men universe (Earth-10005), and his death is what caused that world to gradually deteriorate, sparking fan debate over who might fill an equivalent role in the MCU proper.
How did Kevin Feige respond when asked if Iron Man is the MCU’s anchor?
According to the article, when Phase Zero’s Brandon Davis asked Kevin Feige whether Robert Downey Jr.’s Iron Man was the MCU’s anchor being like Wolverine is for the X-Men, Feige avoided a direct answer. He reportedly just smiled and called the question interesting, replying that the term had ‘ignited your imagination,’ leaving the matter open to fan speculation.
Why do fans doubt Iron Man is the MCU’s anchor being?
The article reports that many fans are skeptical Iron Man is the anchor because the MCU kept functioning after his sacrifice in Avengers: Endgame, suggesting the universe doesn’t depend on him to survive. Most fans instead point to Doctor Strange as the likelier anchor, while others float a cosmic being, a group of heroes, or the idea that each universe has its own separate anchor.
