Marvel Studios humbly suggests that audiences can venture into the realms of “Daredevil: Born Again” with eyes unclouded (excuse the pun), though let us not be blinded by illusion: any fresh adventure within the Marvel Cinematic Universe demands groundwork. Therefore, presented here is a collection of all MCU films and TV shows to be savored prior to the grand debut of “Daredevil: Born Again.”
The following list has been divided into two tiers: essential viewing and beneficial viewing. Essential MCU entries contain pivotal characters and narrative threads that are likely to intertwine with “Born Again.” While beneficial entries encompass Daredevil-centric content that, though not imperative, may enhance the viewing experience.
Must-Watch MCU Movies & TV Shows Before Daredevil: Born Again
Daredevil Seasons 1-3
If there is but one thing to watch before the emergence of “Daredevil: Born Again” on Disney+, it is the original Netflix series “Daredevil.” Though not a direct continuation, “Born Again” is an extension of the Netflix realm, entwined with the essence of “Daredevil” Seasons 1-3. The threads of history depicted in these seasons will likely weave into the tapestry of “Born Again.” Moreover, the key players of the Netflix saga – not only Charlie Cox (Matt Murdock/Daredevil) and Vincent D’Onofrio (Wilson Fisk/The Kingpin), but also Deborah Ann Woll (Karen Page), Elden Henson (Foggy Nelson), Ayelet Zurer (Vanessa Marianna-Fisk), and Jon Bernthal (Frank Castle/The Punisher) – make a return. In sum, “Born Again” shall unravel with greater clarity upon absorbing the stories within “Daredevil.”
The Defenders
It may be prudent to overlook the majority of the so-called “Defenders Saga” prior to “Daredevil: Born Again.” Unless, perchance, Jessica Jones graces the stage (rumored), these intertwining tales hold little connection to the world of Matt Murdock. However, a singular exception shall be found in “The Defenders” miniseries itself. The Man Without Fear and his former flame Elektra Natchios play pivotal roles, with the latter’s demise shaping Daredevil’s journey. Furthermore, the conclusion of “The Defenders” and its post-credits scene pave the way for “Daredevil” Season 3, streamlining the reacquaintance with said narrative.
Hawkeye
In truth, only select portions of “Hawkeye” must be attended to before “Daredevil: Born Again.” This 2021 Disney+ series primarily focuses on another MCU hero, Clint Barton/Hawkeye, with minimal content related to Daredevil. Yet, the penultimate episode of “Hawkeye” reintroduces Vincent D’Onofrio’s Kingpin to the MCU, setting the stage for a tempestuous clash between Maya Lopez/Echo and her “Uncle” Kingpin in the season finale. These events shall sow the seeds for the forthcoming spinoff, “Echo,” in the year 2024.
Echo
The notable feature of “Echo” lies in its mid-credits scene, a precursor to “Daredevil: Born Again.” The narrative thread of Wilson Fisk’s mayoral campaign, teased in the “Born Again” trailer, finds its origins in “Echo.” This 2024 miniseries further establishes the veracity of Fisk’s troubled past from the Netflix “Daredevil” show, while also welcoming a brief appearance from Daredevil in the premiere episode. This encounter between Daredevil and Maya Lopez bears the potential for ensuing significance within the tapestry of “Born Again” Season 1.
Good-to-Watch MCU Movies & TV Shows Before Daredevil: Born Again
Spider-Man: No Way Home
The blockbuster hit of 2021, “Spider-Man: No Way Home,” marked Matt Murdock’s maiden appearance in the MCU on the silver screen. This captivating cameo firmly solidified the blind attorney and his alter-ego in the annals of the franchise. However, the narrative of “No Way Home” bears no direct relevance to the tale of “Daredevil: Born Again,” save for the fleeting moment of Matt representing Peter Parker – an occurrence erased from memory, including Matt’s own! Therefore, “No Way Home” stands separate from the necessities of “Born Again.”
She-Hulk: Attorney at Law
” She-Hulk: Attorney at Law,” a recent addition to the MCU, boasts a Daredevil guest appearance that “Born Again” may choose to overlook. As per showrunner Dario Scardapane, the partnership of Daredevil with She-Hulk and the romantic entanglement of Matt Murdock with her human counterpart, Jennifer Walters, may not be explored in the initial season of “Born Again.” Though Daredevil’s existence within the MCU is acknowledged, certain events from “Spider-Man: No Way Home” and “She-Hulk” are less emphasized. Nonetheless, the final two episodes of “She-Hulk” warrant a viewing prior to “Born Again” for a comprehensive understanding of Daredevil’s journey within the MCU.
“Daredevil: Born Again” shall grace Disney+ on March 4, 2025.
