Ms. Marvel is set to feature the MCU debut of Iman Vellani as the titular hero, marking the newcomer's first acting role. Before being cast as Kamala Khan, it was revealed that Vellani was part of the Next Wave Committee at the 2019 Toronto Film Festival "which was tasked with adding a special tag to films" that "would resonate with their peers," meaning that the actress is already making an effort to "help diversify the industry."
A good part of Ms. Marvel's promotional push was mainly focused on Vellani's love for the Marvel universe, with its first teaser actually showing the actress' reaction to being cast for the role. In addition, the MCU newcomer also released a homemade short film featuring Ms. Marvel and Iron Man, and it was complete with a shoutout to Robert Downey Jr.
From the get-go, it's clear that Vellani is passionate about all things Marvel, and a new interview with Kamala Khan's creator from the comics may have solidified that claim.
Iman Vellani's Highly-Anticipated MCU Debut
Kamala Khan’s creator Sana Amanat sat down with Empire to talk about Iman Vellani's upcoming MCU debut as the live-action iteration of the character.
Amanat revealed to Empire that Vellani is a clear fit for the character right from her Zoom audition, discussing how the young actress initiated a tour of her room filled with Avengers merchandise:
“She showed me every corner of her room, and it was covered with Avengers. Then she said, ‘Oh wait, I’m not done’, opened up her closet, and there was more Marvel everywhere.”
The Marvel creator then pointed out that Vellani's giddy energy and teenage enthusiasm are ideal for a character like Kamala Khan who "isn't your traditional Avenger:"
“She’s not as slick and suave as some superheroes. It’s not like when Captain America throws his shield and it comes back. She’s all over the place. I’m excited for people to get to know her.”
Amanat also revealed that Vellani likens Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige as "her Carol Danvers:"
“She gave me a list of feedback on every single Marvel movie. Kevin Feige is like her Carol Danvers.”
Alongside the reveal, Empire also released a brand new still from Ms. Marvel, showcasing Kamala and Matt Lintz's Bruno Carrelli at AvengerCon:
Iman Vellani & Her Love for the MCU
Based on Sana Amanat's comments, it's safe to say that Iman Vellani is the right actress for the live-action version of Kamala Khan, and this essentially drives more hype for her debut in Ms. Marvel on Disney+. Given that the series is the young MCU newcomer's acting debut, the high praise that she is getting combined with the early positive reception of the show serves as a positive sign.
Vellani's passion for the MCU also serves as an advantage as she portrays a similar personality to that of Kamala Khan, considering that the character is a huge fan of the Avengers in the comics. It's safe to assume that the actress didn't have a hard time showcasing her fangirl vibe to Carol Danvers during filming.
Vellani's knowledge of the wider MCU should also prove valuable behind the scenes since she is more aware of the in-universe events of the franchise. This comes after several Marvel stars, such as Sebastian Stan, admitted to being confused about the MCU's growth.
Having an actress like Vellani who knows every aspect of the franchise creates a smooth transition when it comes to spoilers and Easter eggs that could prove useful in future projects. It also provides an opportunity for Vellani to strengthen her bond with her Marvel co-stars.
The first episode of Ms. Marvel is set to premiere on Disney+ on June 8.
