Rick Riordan Reveals Why His Loki Differs From Marvel’s Trickster
Rick Riordan, famed for Percy Jackson, opens up about his unique take on Loki and Norse mythology, and how it stands apart from Marvel’s version. Plus, get the latest on Percy Jackson’s Disney+ series and what’s next for Loki in the MCU.
Fans of the Percy Jackson movies are no strangers to Rick Riordan’s imaginative worlds, but his adventures don’t stop with Greek legends. Riordan has also explored Norse mythology, and he’s been candid about how his interpretation of Loki stands apart from the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s version of the character. Years ago, he shared his perspective on Marvel’s approach to Norse myths and how he aimed to stay closer to the original tales.
Riordan’s Take on Loki and Norse Legends
In an interview, Riordan reflected on his childhood love for Thor comics and his enjoyment of Marvel’s films, but he pointed out that Marvel takes significant creative liberties with Norse mythology.
I grew up on Thor comics and I like the Marvel movies, but they play fast and loose with the Norse myths. I wanted my version to be closer to the original. Loki is a great character in the old Viking stories.
He explained that in his novel, he wanted to capture Loki’s true essence from the ancient stories:
the same way he acts in the myths: clever, funny, capricious, silver-tongued and quick to anger.
Riordan’s book, Magnus Chase and the Sword of Summer, was released around the time of this interview, adding to his celebrated bibliography that includes Percy Jackson & the Olympians, Heroes of Olympus, and The Trials of Apollo.
Percy Jackson Returns With Season 2 on Disney+
Riordan’s stories have inspired both movies and a new television series. The Percy Jackson saga, which first hit the big screen with stars like Logan Lerman and Alexandra Daddario, has now been reimagined as a Disney+ series. The first season premiered in December 2023, and the second season is set to launch with its first two episodes on December 10, 2025. New episodes will drop every Wednesday through January 21, 2026, bringing more of Percy’s epic adventures to fans old and new.
Here’s the release schedule for the upcoming season:
| Episode | Title | Release Date |
| Season 2 episode 1 | I Play Dodgeball with Cannibals | December 10, 2025 |
| Season 2 episode 2 | Demon Pigeons Attack | December 10, 2025 |
| Season 2 episode 3 | We Board the Princess Andromeda | December 17, 2025 |
| Season 2 episode 4 | Clarisse Blows Up Everything | December 24, 2025 |
| Season 2 episode 5 | We Check In to CC’s Spa & Resort | December 31, 2025 |
| Season 2 episode 6 | Nobody Gets the Fleece | January 7, 2026 |
| Season 2 episode 7 | I Go Down with the Ship | January 14, 2026 |
| Season 2 episode 8 | The Fleece Works Its Magic Too Well | January 21, 2026 |
Loki’s Journey in the MCU and What’s Next
Loki has always been a character who evokes a mix of emotions—sometimes a villain, sometimes a hero, and always unpredictable. After his dramatic end in Avengers: Infinity War, another version of Loki emerged, escaping during the events of Avengers: Endgame. This alternate Loki, featured in the Disney+ series, comes from a different timeline, not the main MCU universe.
This twist means that Thor, who mourned his brother’s death, hasn’t yet witnessed the growth and redemption of this new Loki. But fans won’t have to wait much longer for a reunion. Avengers: Doomsday, set to premiere on December 18, 2026, promises to bring Loki back alongside Thor, the new Captain America, and the rest of the team. The anticipation is building for what’s sure to be a memorable chapter in the Marvel saga.
Percy Jackson and the Olympians season 2 is streaming on Disney+. Avengers: Doomsday arrives December 18, 2026.