Summary
Marvel Comicsis home to many hero teams that help protect the world and sometimes the universe. While the most decorated teams are composed of Marvel’s mightiest, likethe Avengers, there are other teams that are made up of budding heroes and up-and-comers. One such group is the Young Avengers, a collection of second-generation heroes and proteges that have stepped up in the Avengers' absence.
The Young Avengers is one of the most interesting and colorful superhero teams in Marvel Comics, and with the MCU slowly planting the seeds, they are undoubtedly due for a big-screen premiere. With Riri Williams' Disney+ series making a big splash and her role in the MCU headed toward a younger class of heroes, here are some of the best Young Avengers in Marvel Comics.
8Cassie Lang
Daughter Of Ant-Man
Cassie Lang was an original member of the Young Avengers in the comics when it was formed by Iron Lad. As a second-generation superhero, Cassie inherited her father’s technology and gained the ability to manipulate her size using Pym particles. Cassie is a complex character with big dreams of being a hero, but she approaches achieving them in questionable ways, much like her father.
Cassie has had several monikers over the years, most recently “Stinger.” She is a dedicated hero and wants nothing more than to help the world. Her value to any team, aside from her powers, lies in her understanding that the world is not black and white. Cassie Lang has already debuted in the MCU and is primed for a Young Avengers spot.
7America Chavez
One Of The Strongest Of The Young Avengers
America Chavez, also known as Ms. America, is a young avenger who was recruited during the team’s second formation during the Marvel NOW! event. America Chavez inherited her powers from her mothers, who gave their lives to stabilize a fragmenting dimension. Seeking to honor her lost family’s sacrifice, she has dedicated herself to being a hero to those in need. America’s strong moral compass and drive to make a difference make her a dedicated hero who risks it all to save the day.
America is also one of the most powerful young heroes in Marvel Comics, possessing super strength, speed, durability, and the ability to hop between dimensions. America Chavez has appeared in the MCU inDoctor Strange: Multiverse of Madnessand would make a great story point for the introduction of the Young Avengers.
6Wiccan
A Magical Powerhouse
Wiccan is a powerful mutant with magical abilities similar to the Scarlet Witch and Doctor Strange. Wiccan has a long and illustrious history in Marvel Comics, with a destiny that makes him one of the most vital characters in Marvel’s line of fiction. Wiccan is another original team member of the Young Avengers; his powers manifested as a teen, and he was drafted onto the team not long after to save the world.
Wicccan was always a non-confrontational young man, but could not stomach the injustice of others. This innate sense of right and wrong made him a great fit on the team, and along with his potent magical power, he was one of the pillars of the Young Avengers. Wiccan has been established in theWandavisionMarvel television series, so his spot is all but confirmed should a Young Avengers film arise.
5Torunn/Love/Thrud
The Daughter Of The God Of Thunder
Both in theMarvel Cinematic Universeand in Marvel Comics continuity, Thor is said to have a child. While in the MCU, Thor adopts Gorr’s daughter, Love. However, in the comics, Thor has a child with Sif, who is a part of the Next Avengers in the animated film.
While the direction that Marvel could go with the character of Thor’s daughter is not set in stone, a young Asgardian warrior would be a great addition to the future of the MCU. Thor’s daughter is kind and thoughtful, like her father, and has inherited her mother’s sword skills. Thor’s daughter is a fierce warrior and has taken to heroism strongly in the comics.
4Prodigy
The Brilliant Strategist
Prodigy was initially a member of the New Mutants, led by Surge. He took the role of the team’s strategist thanks to his mutant ability of comprehension and intellect, making him one of the most intelligent individuals on the planet. Prodigy has a rocky relationship with his fellow mutants and goes his own way after a clash of personalities.
Prodigy was one of the first members of the Marvel Now! Young Avengers and joined Tommy Shepard to investigate who stole Patriot’s uniform. Prodigy is an invaluable teammate thanks to his ability to utilize the intellects of those around him, making him a perfect fit for teamwork and leadership.
3Kate Bishop
The Second Generation Markswoman
Kate Bishop is another character who has already been established within the Marvel Cinematic Universe thanks to theHawkeye serieson Disney+. Inspired by the Avengers, mainly Clint Barton, Kate decided to take up the mantle of a vigilante herself, modeling herself after Hawkeye.
In the comics, Hawkeye dies saving the world, and she learns most of her skills independently. Upon Hakweye’s resurrection, the two form a bond, and Clint molds her into an ace hero who eventually joins the Young Avengers. Kate is every ounce an ace shot as her mentor and brings talent, as well as the backbone and financial backing, to the team.
2Patriot
The Shield Bearer Of The Next Generation
Patriot’s real name is Elijah Bradley. He was briefly introduced inFalcon and the Winter Soldierseries and is the grandson of Josiah Bradley, the original Captain America. While he’s not a super soldier in the show, in the comics, Elijah acquired the Super Soldier serum after a blood transfusion from his grandfather.
Inspired by his new abilities and his grandfather’s legacy, he took up a shield of his own and donned the role of Patriot. Patriot is a founding member and leader of the Young Avengers. He would be the perfect face of a Young Avengers film and fit great alongside Riri Williams.
1Hulkling
The Golly Green Powerhouse
Hulkling is one of the most interesting members of the Young Avengers. Raised on Earth, Hulkling is actually a half-Kree, half-Skrull with the powers and traits of both. He lived most of his life in secret until he was approached by Kang about the Young Avengers program. Graciously accepting, Hulkling took the role ofthe Hulkand augmented his appearance to resemble the rageful hero.
Hulkling brought heart and power to the team, being one of the most dependable and protective members. His story, inclusivity, and abilities would make him a great character to debut in the MCU in a Young Avengers film.