As the Marvel Cinematic Universe expands, so does its viewing options. Since the launch of Disney+, MCU fans have seen a number of limited series centering on supporting characters. By doing so, we get to see more of their story in ways that the theatrical films could not explore. But as more series debut, it also introduces new characters like the ruthless gang leader Echo, who made her debut in “Hawkeye.” Now Disney has released their first look at Alaqua Cox as Maya Lopez aka Echo for the upcoming series set to launch on Disney+ in 2023.
Today, Marvel announced that production for Echo officially started in Atlanta today. Though the first image doesn’t offer too much in terms of plot or spoilers, a closer look reveals how the series will have a street-level feel to it. Which isn’t entirely surprising given how the character was first introduced in Hawkeye. On that show, she proved to be a formidable antagonist who tried to carry her late father’s mob empire while Wilson Fisk (Vincent D’Onofrio) helped from the shadows. Of course, we all know how that ended when Maya confronted Fisk, and put an end to their working relationship.
Now it looks like she’s ready to forge a new path, even if that means having to come to terms with her NYC criminal past that caught up to her in her hometown. The show also highlights the importance of representation as Cox is a deaf Native American actor.
Here’s the brief official plot synopsis for “Echo:”
The origin story of Echo revisits Maya Lopez, whose ruthless behavior in New York City catches up with her in her hometown. She must face her past, reconnect with her Native American roots and embrace the meaning of family and community if she ever hopes to move forward.
“Echo” also stars Chaske Spencer (“Wild Indian,” “The English”), Tantoo Cardinal (“Killers of the Flower Moon,” “Stumptown”), Devery Jacobs (FX’s “Reservation Dogs,” “American Gods”) and Cody Lightning (“Hey, Viktor!” “Four Sheets to the Wind”), with Graham Greene (“1883,” “Goliath”) and Zahn McClarnon (“Dark Winds,” FX’s “Reservation Dogs”)
Episodes of the series are directed by Sydney Freeland (Navajo) and Catriona McKenzie (Gunaikurnai). Executive producers are Kevin Feige, Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Brad Winderbaum, Stephen Broussard, Richie Palmer, Marion Dayre and Jason Gavin (Blackfeet). Co-executive producers are Amy Rardin, Sydney Freeland, Christina King (Seminole) and Jennifer Booth.
