Marvel’s Wonder Man Series Hints at the Strangest Avengers Yet

Marvel Studios is taking a bold new direction with its upcoming Wonder Man series, promising a fresh spin on the superhero formula. The show is already making waves by bringing in some of the most unconventional characters from the comic book world, including members of the Great Lakes Avengers —a team known for its eccentric lineup and offbeat charm.

One of the standout additions is Doorman, a lesser-known mutant whose unique power allows him to transform his body into a portal of dark energy. His inclusion in Wonder Man marks the second time a Great Lakes Avenger has appeared in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, following Mister Immortal’s cameo as a dubious ex-husband in She-Hulk. These appearances are fueling speculation that Marvel might be quietly assembling its most unusual team of heroes yet.

Meet the Great Lakes Avengers

The original Great Lakes Avengers roster is a collection of true oddballs. Alongside Doorman and Mister Immortal, the team features Dinah Soar, a human-pterodactyl hybrid; Flatman, whose two-dimensional, ultra-flexible body defies logic; and Big Bertha, a supermodel with the ability to massively inflate her size. First introduced in 1989’s West Coast Avengers #46 by John Byrne, this group set out to protect the Midwest, borrowing the Avengers name without official approval. Despite their unsanctioned status, West Coast Avengers members Hawkeye and Mockingbird took them under their wing, helping them grow as heroes, though they never became full-fledged Avengers.

Over the years, the team has cycled through several names, each one borrowed from more established groups. They’ve called themselves the Lightning Rods, the Great Lakes X-Men after discovering their mutant status, and eventually the Great Lakes Champions, a title with its own storied history in Marvel lore. Most recently, they’ve returned to the Great Lakes Avengers moniker, still unofficial but now at least tolerated thanks to their persistent—if not always successful—heroics.

Wonder Man’s Role in the MCU

Doorman’s role in the Wonder Man series is still under wraps, but his presence is already significant. The show references a “Doorman Clause,” an insurance waiver that actors in the MCU’s world must sign to confirm they don’t possess superpowers. This detail all but guarantees that Doorman’s abilities will play a part in the story, though exactly how remains to be seen.

With two Great Lakes Avengers now in the MCU, fans are left wondering if Marvel is laying the groundwork for a new team of lovable misfits. Unlike the Thunderbolts or the main Avengers, this group would bring a different flavor to the universe—quirky, underpowered, but undeniably memorable. Still, Marvel is known for keeping its cards close to the vest, so it ’s anyone’s guess whether more GLA members will show up or if these are just fun nods for longtime fans.

What’s Next for Marvel’s Oddball Heroes?

There’s a chance that Marvel is building toward a bigger payoff with the Great Lakes Avengers, but it’s just as likely that Mister Immortal and Doorman are one-off appearances meant to expand the MCU’s roster and delight comic book enthusiasts. With so many other characters still waiting for their moment—like Hercules, Clea, and Skarr—it’s unclear how much focus the studio will give to this quirky team.

Regardless, the arrival of these unconventional heroes is a treat for fans who appreciate Marvel’s weirder side. If the studio does decide to bring the Great Lakes Avengers together, it would be a bold move—especially considering Wonder Man himself is only a step above them in terms of recognition. All eight episodes of Wonder Man are set to premiere January 27 on Disney Plus, promising plenty of surprises for viewers eager to see what’s next in the ever-expanding Marvel universe.