After pandemic-infused delays and a barrage of promotional materials, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings has finally arrived in theaters.
Directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, the Phase 4 entry introduced Simu Liu as the MCU's Master of Kung Fu, but on a more important note, the franchise's newest Avenger.
Marketing for Shang-Chi hasn't been shy in emphasizing the fact that Liu's Marvel hero will indeed join the ranks of Earth's Mightiest Heroes, with promo materials including footage of Iron Man, Captain America, and Thor.
Given that the film is set within the confines of the MCU, the hero's inclusion among Earth's protectors makes sense. This is further amplified by the online buzz on social media, with Marvel stars like Chris Hemsworth welcoming Liu to the ever-growing superhero franchise.
Now, another major MCU star has welcomed Liu to the franchise.
Brie Larson Welcomes Simu Liu's Shang-Chi
Update: Simu Liu responded to Brie Larson's tweet by saying "Thank you, Cap" alongside praying emojis:
In a recent tweet, Captain Marvel actress Brie Larson welcomed Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings star Simu Liu to the MCU, while also congratulating the actor during the film's opening day debut in theaters worldwide:
"Welcome to the MCU, Shang-Chi. Congratulations, @SimuLiu."
Meanwhile, in another tweet replying to Liu's post about celebrating the theatrical debut of Shang-Chi, Thor: Love and Thunder director Taika Waititi also greeted the Marvel actor with his own version of a congratulatory response:
"Congratulations.........?"
Simu Liu is The MCU's Newest Avenger
Many would agree that Brie Larson's latest tweet to Simu Liu should serve as a hint of things to come for the two Marvel mainstays. Given that Captain Marvel is poised to be a major part of the MCU's Phase 4, it's reasonable to assume that her and Liu's Master of Kung Fu will meet in-universe at some point.
Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige previously stated that Brie Larson's Captain Marvel would be pushed "at the forefront" of the MCU moving forward. That said, it seems that Shang-Chi will not be the only character that the cosmic hero will get to team up with down the line.
At this stage, it remains to be seen how a grounded hero like Shang-Chi will meet a space-based ally like Captain Marvel, but Avengers: Endgame proved that anything is possible at this point. The Infinity Saga was filled with hilarious first-time character interactions, and it will be interesting to find out how Shang-Chi will react upon meeting Carol Danvers.
Meanwhile, Taika Waititi's tweet is a fitting reminder of the director's comedic personality. Not much is known about Waititi's MCU future after Thor: Love and Thunder, but many would agree that a meeting between Korg and Shang-Chi would be a visual treat if it happens in the future.
Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings is now playing in theaters worldwide.
