Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 star Will Poulter teases Adam Warlock's future in the MCU. First appearing in the after credits of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, Adam Warlock is finally set to make his MCU debut in May 2023 with the release of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. After a long search that included actors like Regé-Jean Page (Bridgerton) and George MacKay (1917), it was announced in October 2021 that Will Poulter (Midsommar) had landed the coveted role.
Adam Warlock has a long history in the pages of Marvel Comics, originally appearing simply as Him in Fantastic Four #66 and #67 by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. The character would get his proper introduction as Adam Warlock and the character would be expanded upon by Roy Thomas and Gil Kane in Marvel Premiere #1 in 1972, and his story would be further fleshed out by writer Jim Starlin. The character has a long, storied history in the comics, having been both a member of the Guardians of the Galaxy and the Infinity Watch and played a big role in the Infinity Gauntlet story. With Adam Warlock making his MCU debut after many of his traditional comic storylines have already been adapted, it'll be interesting to see if James Gunn gives him an original story for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.
In an interview with Collider, Poulter was asked how the possibility of continuing the character over multiple years and projects impacted his decision to take on the role. Poulter said he is not sure what his future in the MCU is beyond Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. He did say taking on the role comes with a certain level of commitment and that he is grateful to have the role. Read Poulter's full quote below:
"Sure. Yeah, you do have to entertain that possibility. The truth is, I don’t actually know what the future holds for me, regarding the character. Certainly, it comes with a certain level of commitment that requires consideration, but obviously, I’m very grateful to have been given the role."
While Marvel Studios does like to plan stories out, as Kevin Feige recently announced that the studio was planning its next ten years, the studio also has a certain level of flexibility to adjust its plans if need be. The studio has moved away from actors signing long-term contracts, as was the case with Oscar Isaac in Moon Knight, as he was only contracted for the mini-series. While it is unclear if Poulter is signed for multiple projects or just one film, if the character proves successful, the MCU will likely try to bring him back.
However, there are plenty of places for Adam Warlock to go in the MCU. While Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is being sold as the final film for director James Gunn and the current incarnation of the team, it does not mean the franchise is over as Marvel Studios could introduce an entirely new team with Adam Warlock as the lead. Eternals introduced Pip the Troll, who, in the comics, is a long-time associate of Adam Warlock. Upcoming MCU films like Thor: Love and Thunder and The Marvels, as well as the planned Nova project, will feature plenty of cosmic characters who could join Adam Warlock in future films.
Source: Collider
