Warning: This post contains SPOILERS for Hawkeye Episode 4.

Marvel Studios is finally making its viewers’ criticism of Clint Barton ridiculous, and to some extent, unwarranted, thanks to his depiction in Hawkeye. The fifth MCU television series this year chronicles the six-day New York adventure of Clint (Jeremy Renner) and Kate Bishop (Hailee Steinfeld). The two marksmen have to race against the ticking holiday clock while uncovering the secrets of their past and their family members. As Clint and Kate learn more about each other, they gradually develop a partnership, shedding light on the strengths and abilities previously not shared in detail, particularly Hawkeye’s. Through the show, the usual criticisms and insults against the founding member of the Avengers are rendered invalid.

In Hawkeye episode 4, Clint realizes how dangerous their mission really is. Little by little, the puzzle pieces surrounding the infamous Tracksuit Mafia are falling into place, and in the meantime, they figure out their next best move. Kate then deduces that Clint Barton was Ronin all along. Seeing no reason to deny his past anymore, Clint admits his violent post-Snap stint. While, for the most part, Ronin was born out of his need to avenge his family’s loss, Clint has also shared his true motivation.

Related: Marvel Undoes Hawkeye’s Divisive Age of Ultron Story

Clint reveals that in the five years prior to the time heist in Avengers: Endgame, he simply continued doing what he was trained to do — hurting people. He was merely “aimed by the right people at the right targets,” but nonetheless, he was still bred as a weapon. This revelation debunks the general perception of Hawkeye as the “weakest Avenger.” Since he is usually seen launching arrows, it is easy to dismiss Hawkeye as the Avengers’ worst member since he rarely participates in flashy fight sequences. However, by giving more context to Clint’s background, Marvel builds up his reputation as the most dangerous Avenger.

Throughout his MCU tenure, Clint has always been underappreciated. Not only did he receive the least amount of screen time, but also his backstory remained overlooked and unexplored, as his fellow Avengers’ were thoroughly fleshed out. This might be because his origin story only relied on his raw power and honed skills. Fortunately, in his solo show, his abilities are showcased. Aside from his heightened vision and impeccable hand-eye coordination, Clint also possesses the power to accurately aim any projectile, no matter the position or state of motion — further exhibited by his impressive Christmas decoration trick. This demonstration is an interesting Easter egg in Hawkeye episode 4, which brings the MCU Hawkeye closer to his comic-book counterpart.

The Disney+ show is perhaps Marvel’s most elaborate means of refuting criticisms and giving justice to the underrated Hawkeye. Even without a super-soldier serum or god-like powers, he is still an invaluable member of the Avengers. If anything, the inclusion of a street-level hero in Hawkeye grounds the Marvel Cinematic Universe and pushes its viewers to realize that beyond the bow and arrows lies a simple mortal, a family man just brave enough to face anything.

More: Hawkeye's True Marvel Origin Is Impossible In The MCU

Hawkeye airs new episodes Wednesdays on Disney+.

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