While the rivalry between Marvel and DC is largely among the fans, I’m incredibly excited to see one of the most underrated X-Men join the DCU to get a “redemption arc.” Both Marvel and DC have released numerous projects over the decades, with varying degrees of success and popularity. While DC originally had a long spell of dominant theatrical releases, the 2000s began to see a shift for Marvel with the release of X-Men under Fox, and, of course, the MCU.

However, despite gaining popularity, the franchises were never perfect. Some movies are bigger and better than others. In addition, the stars who shine through in these films aren’t always easy to predict, with actors like Hugh Jackman and Patrick Stewart seeing tremendous success come out of their time in the franchise. But one character who could have been so much more appeared briefly in X-Men: First Class, and now the actor is expected to play a much larger in the DCU starting with his part in Superman.

Darwin Was Easily The Fox X-Men Series’ Most Wasted Hero

X-Men: First Class Could Have Done More With Darwin

Egi Gathegi plays a notable role in X-Men: First Class as the shapeshifting mutant, Darwin. However, unlike other shapeshifters like Mystique, Darwin is able to physically alter his body’s molecular structure, and adapt to a variety of threats through his bodies evolving and changing to suit any situation. However, despite being set up as a survivor, and possessing the ability to instantly evolve, Darwin was killed shortly after the X-Men team was formed, before he could see any action in the field.

Darwin was strong, intelligent, and his powers were not to be toyed with. However, because the villains got wind of the organization forming a team of mutants to work under the government, they attacked these naiscent heroes before they had any real training. With some alcohol in his system, and totally unprepared to deal with an attack, Darwin bravely stood forward to protect his allies, but he was quickly disposed of, making his character and powers seem redundant.

Edi Gathegi Has Gone From Marvel’s X-Men To The DC Universe

The Crossover Between Realities Is Exciting For Edi Gathegi To Shine

This was a tremendous shame, not only because of the characters’ potential, but also the fact that Edi Gathegi was perfect in the part of Darwin. His wit, intelligence, and strength came across beautifully in the role, but with such a quick demise, he never got the chance to truly shine. But thankfully, the DCU has set Gathegi up to have a bright future in their universe.

In the DCU, Gathegi is playing the part of Mister Terrific, a superhero who pushes the limits of human capability. Michael Holt’s incredible intellect became apparent from a young age, and by the time he was a teenager, he had earned several Ph.D.’s, competed as an internationally celebrated Olympic decathlete, and was an extremely successful person in all aspects of life. Looking to do more with his incredible ability, Holt eventually took up the mantle of Mister Terrific, and became a superhero.

I’m So Excited To see How Edi Gathegi Pulls Off His “Redemption Arc” As Mister Terrific

The DCU Is Already Expanding At A Rapid Pace

Recently, Edi Gathegi spoke about his role as Holt in the DC Studios Showcase Official Podcast (via CBR). While there remains curiosity about how the actor must feel going from Marvel to DC, Gathegi tactfully responds by skirting the question and revealing his own feelings about the opportunity to play Mister Terrific in the DCU. Gathegi goes on to say:

“I’m so happy that I get a redemption arc in the new DC Universe. I’m excited to inspire a whole generation of young Black kids with this new superhero”

Of course, the MCU and DCU are not connected worlds, and the redemption arc that Gathegi is talking about is more rooted in the idea of joining another comic book movie franchise more broadly. However, with both his characters in either world having some striking similarities, it feels like the right call to have him play the brilliant genius, Mister Terrific. However, where his story will take him in the DCU down the line is impossible to predict, but Edi Gathegi has an exciting opportunity ahead as the character.