The first three episodes of the series Ironheart are now available on Disney+. As usual, we’ve taken the opportunity to explore some of the best Easter eggs hidden in these Marvel episodes. Here are the 18 most intriguing Easter eggs from the series.
18) Obadiah Stane
Fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) will remember Obadiah Stane, the first major antagonist in the series, played by Jeff Bridges in the original Iron Man. Stane, a former associate of Tony Stark, attempts to steal Stark’s business and wealth, even crafting his own armor to become Iron Monger. In Ironheart, Riri discovers the ashes of this character — marking the first mention of the name Iron Monger within the MCU.
17) Ezekiel Stane
The series also introduces the son of Iron Monger, Ezekiel Stane. First seen in the comics in 2008, Ezekiel aims to avenge his father’s death by dismantling Stark’s legacy. In the series, he is portrayed by the talented Alden Ehrenreich (Solo: A Star Wars Story), though he appears less intent on targeting Riri Williams or Stark’s heritage.
16) Riri Williams Utilizes Wakandan AI
Riri Williams develops her own AI, modeled after Griot, the AI created by Shuri in Wakanda Forever. Her version takes the appearance of her deceased friend Natalie and is aptly named NATALIE, which stands for Neuro Autonomous Technical Assistant and Laboratory Intelligence.
15) The Stark Scholarship
It is revealed that Riri Williams has lost her Stark scholarship, which was first introduced in Captain America: Civil War. She lost it due to her inability to utilize Stark technology in her armor.
14) The Return of Jim Rash
Comedian Jim Rash makes his return to the MCU, reprising his role as Professor Wikes from MIT. He first appeared in Civil War, seeking a scholarship from Stark for his concept of a self-heating hot dog.
13) Mentions of Hank Pym, Tony Stark, and Thor
Riri expresses her desire to be even smarter than Pym and Stark. To which Natalie humorously responds that she’d like to spend a night with Thor and his hammer.
12) Madripoor
The notorious crime city of Madripoor makes a return after being introduced in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier.
11) Teasing Justin Hammer’s Return?
Character Justin Hammer, played by Sam Rockwell in Iron Man 2, has been hinted at making a return. This eccentric arms dealer was a direct competitor to Stark, though his technology was not as reliable. After serving time in prison, Hammer was last seen in the short film All Hail the King. While he hasn’t appeared in Ironheart, various Easter eggs hint at his connection, including a shady character being referred to as “the supplier” who deals in unreliable, flashy weapons.
10) The Young Avengers Are Among Us
In episode 2, viewers can spot a stunning mural in the subway referencing the Young Avengers, featuring America Chavez and Kate Bishop. They are flanked by a winged figure who may well be Ironheart. The artwork is accompanied by the message “YA RISES“.
9) A Tease for Armor Wars?
In Riri Williams’ workshop, a message reads “too many armors… who’s watching?“. This line likely references the upcoming Armor Wars.
8) Latveria
Riri sometimes worries that her inventions may be misappropriated. In one scene, we see a reference to “Unregistered replicas in Latveria“, a nod to Doctor Doom, who hails from the fictional country of Latveria.
7) Project Pegasus
Ironheart also alludes to Project Pegasus, a scientific initiative first mentioned in Captain Marvel and The Avengers.
6) The Ten Rings Symbol
In one brief shot, the logo of the Ten Rings organization, created by the Mandarin in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, can be glimpsed. This criminal organization is currently led by Xialing, Shang-Chi’s sister.
5) The Hood
Anthony Ramos is set to portray Parker Robbins, aka The Hood. Created in 2002, this character is beloved among comic readers. Parker starts off as a small-time crook working for Wilson Fisk. Following his mother’s death, he attempts to rob an arms warehouse, where he encounters a mystical creature known as Nisanti. After slaying the demon, he steals its cape and boots, gaining the ability to levitate, become invisible, and detect spells and shapeshifters. As he loses his temper, Parker Robbins transforms into a powerful demon, making him a formidable opponent capable of facing off against characters like Wolverine.
4) Mephisto?
Since WandaVision, fans have speculated about a potential appearance of Mephisto. In Ironheart, there’s a poster for Faust, which fans interpret as another nod to Mephisto.
3) Riri’s Student ID Number
Riri Williams’ student ID number, 30216RW, is a reference to her first comic appearance in Iron Man 7, published on March 2, 2016.
2) A Reference to The Falcon and the Winter Soldier
Riri points out the need to evolve in a world threatened by “aliens, androids, and sorcerers“. This line echoes a sentiment previously expressed in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier.
1) Spider-Man
The truck belonging to The Hood’s crew is whimsically named Friendly Neighborhood Service, a direct nod to Spider-Man and the title of the comic series The Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man.
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