Brett Goldstein's Hercules: MCU Future & Surprise Casting!

Donato Goyette IV 18 May 2025

Were you as electrified as we were by that surprise appearance at the end of Thor: Love and Thunder? The buzz surrounding Brett Goldstein's portrayal of Hercules in the Marvel Cinematic Universe is undeniable, and fans are clamoring for any morsel of information about his future within the franchise.

The internet practically exploded after the credits rolled, revealing the Ted Lasso star as the son of Zeus, poised for what many assume will be a significant role in the MCU's unfolding narrative. The casting choice itself was a masterstroke, injecting a fresh dose of charisma and unexpected physicality into a character ripe with potential. While details remain shrouded in secrecy, the anticipation is palpable. The question on everyone's mind: what does the future hold for Brett Goldstein's Hercules in the MCU?

Brett Goldstein: Bio, Career, and MCU Future
Full Name	Brett Goldstein
Date of Birth	July 17, 1980
Place of Birth	Sutton, London, England
Nationality	British
Occupation	Actor, Comedian, Writer
Years Active	2005present
Known For	Ted Lasso (Roy Kent), Derek, Uncle, Thor: Love and Thunder (Hercules)
Awards	Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series (Ted Lasso, 2021, 2022)
Early Career	After graduating from Warwick University with a degree in Film Studies, Goldstein trained at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York. He began his career with guest roles on television shows such as "The Bill" and "Doctors".
Breakthrough Role	Goldstein's breakthrough role came with his portrayal of Roy Kent in the Apple TV+ series "Ted Lasso." His performance as the gruff but lovable retired footballer earned him widespread critical acclaim and multiple awards.
Writing Credits	In addition to his acting work, Goldstein is also a successful writer. He has written for shows such as "Derek" and "Catherine the Great," and co-created the AMC anthology series "Soulmates."
MCU Debut	Goldstein made his debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Hercules in a post-credits scene of "Thor: Love and Thunder" (2022).
Hercules Costume	Thanks to concept art, fans got their first look at the full costume for Brett Goldstein's Hercules, offering clues about the character's visual representation in the MCU. The design appears to be a modern take on the classic mythological hero.
Future MCU Plans	While Marvel has remained tight-lipped, speculation is rife about Hercules' future appearances. Many expect him to play a significant role in future Thor films or even lead his own spin-off project. Goldstein himself has remained coy about his future, deflecting questions with humor.
Goldstein's Reaction to Casting	Goldstein has expressed surprise and gratitude at the positive reaction to his casting as Hercules. He has also noted the pressure of taking on such an iconic role.
Comparison to Disney's Hercules	Goldstein has jokingly compared his role to the Disney animated version of Hercules, suggesting there will be less singing in his portrayal.
Current Status	As of late 2023, Goldstein continues to act, write, and perform comedy. His involvement in the MCU remains a topic of intense speculation and excitement among fans.
Official Website	Brett Goldstein Official Website

October 10, 2022, marks a significant point in the ongoing saga of the MCU's Phase Four and beyond. With some time having passed since the debut of Thor: Love and Thunder, its become clear that the project has been somewhat divisive amongst fans. While some lauded its vibrant visuals and comedic tone, others felt it strayed too far from the established gravitas of the Thor franchise. However, one element that seemed to garner near-universal praise was the surprise introduction of Brett Goldstein as Hercules.

Goldstein himself has acknowledged the overwhelmingly positive reaction to his casting. In numerous interviews, he's expressed genuine surprise and gratitude for the warm welcome he's received from the Marvel fanbase. However, true to the secretive nature of Marvel Studios, he has remained remarkably tight-lipped about any concrete plans for Hercules' future appearances. This carefully guarded silence has only served to fuel the flames of speculation, with fans dissecting every interview and social media post for potential clues.

Adding fuel to the speculative fire, Goldstein has playfully alluded to differences between his portrayal of Hercules and the beloved Disney animated version from 1997. He's hinted, with a characteristic twinkle in his eye, that audiences can likely expect less singing from the MCU's Hercules. This subtle remark suggests a deliberate departure from the lightheartedness of the animated film, perhaps indicating a more grounded and battle-hardened interpretation of the iconic demigod.

The veil of secrecy surrounding Hercules' future within the MCU is a strategy Marvel Studios has perfected over the years. When directly questioned about further discussions regarding his role, Brett Goldstein has expertly employed the time-honored Marvel tactic of feigned ignorance. This playful denial, while frustrating for eager fans, is a clear indication that Marvel has significant plans for the character. The level of secrecy surrounding a relatively brief cameo suggests that Hercules is destined for a more substantial role than a mere one-off appearance.

In a candid interview with Variety, Brett Goldstein finally broke his silence, albeit strategically, regarding his involvement in Thor: Love and Thunder as Hercules, the son of Zeus. He acknowledged the whirlwind of events that led to his casting, describing the experience as both surreal and incredibly exciting. He spoke of his admiration for the Marvel Cinematic Universe and his eagerness to contribute to its rich tapestry of characters and stories.

The portrayal of Hercules presents a unique challenge and opportunity. Unlike some of the more obscure characters Marvel has resurrected, Hercules is a well-known figure with a long and storied history in mythology and popular culture. Goldstein's interpretation must therefore strike a delicate balance between honoring the character's established traits and injecting a fresh, contemporary sensibility. The pressure to deliver a performance that resonates with both longtime fans and newcomers is undoubtedly immense.

The question of where Hercules might appear next is a source of constant debate among Marvel enthusiasts. Some speculate that he could play a pivotal role in future Thor films, potentially challenging Thor for the title of strongest Avenger. Others believe he could be integrated into a new team-based project, perhaps alongside other mythological figures or cosmic entities. Still others dream of a solo Hercules film or series, exploring the character's origins, his relationships with the other Olympian gods, and his place in the modern world.

One particularly intriguing possibility is a storyline that delves into the complex relationship between Hercules and Zeus, his often-overbearing father. The comics have frequently explored the tensions between the two, portraying Zeus as a flawed and sometimes tyrannical figure. A cinematic adaptation of this dynamic could provide fertile ground for dramatic storytelling, exploring themes of family, legacy, and the burden of expectations.

Another compelling avenue for exploration is Hercules' inherent goodness and his unwavering commitment to justice. Despite his immense strength and his occasional bursts of anger, Hercules is ultimately a hero who fights for the innocent and defends the weak. Showcasing this compassionate side of the character could provide a powerful counterpoint to the more morally ambiguous heroes that have populated the MCU in recent years.

The visual representation of Hercules is another aspect that has generated considerable interest. The concept art that surfaced online provided a glimpse of the costume design, which appears to be a modern interpretation of the classic Hercules attire. The armor is sleek and functional, yet still evokes the imagery of the ancient Greek hero. The emphasis on practicality suggests a focus on Hercules' physical prowess and his ability to engage in fierce combat.

The casting of Brett Goldstein, known for his comedic timing and his surprisingly ripped physique, was a brilliant stroke of genius. He brings a unique blend of humor, vulnerability, and physical presence to the role. His portrayal of Roy Kent in Ted Lasso demonstrated his ability to convey both strength and sensitivity, qualities that are essential for a compelling depiction of Hercules.

The success of Hercules in the MCU will depend not only on Goldstein's performance but also on the writing and direction. The character needs to be integrated seamlessly into the existing narrative, with a clear and compelling motivation for his actions. He needs to be more than just a strongman; he needs to be a fully realized character with his own desires, fears, and flaws.

The potential for Hercules to become a major player in the MCU is undeniable. His strength, his iconic status, and his compelling backstory make him a character ripe for exploration. With the right creative team behind him, Hercules could become one of the most beloved and enduring heroes in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

The appearance of Hercules opens up a vast array of narrative possibilities. It suggests that the MCU is willing to delve deeper into mythology and explore the realms of the gods. This could lead to the introduction of other iconic figures from Greek mythology, such as Ares, Athena, and Poseidon, enriching the MCU with a whole new pantheon of characters.

The integration of mythology into the MCU also raises intriguing questions about the nature of power and the role of belief. Are the gods truly immortal, or are they simply beings of immense power sustained by the faith of mortals? How does the existence of the gods impact the lives of ordinary people on Earth? These are the kinds of philosophical questions that the MCU could explore through the character of Hercules.

The casting of Brett Goldstein also signifies a commitment to diversity and inclusivity. By casting a British actor in the role of a Greek god, Marvel is challenging traditional notions of representation and embracing a more global perspective. This is a welcome trend in the MCU, which has increasingly strived to reflect the diversity of its audience.

The anticipation surrounding Hercules' future is a testament to the power of the MCU to captivate audiences and generate excitement. The carefully orchestrated secrecy, the tantalizing hints, and the inspired casting choices have all contributed to the buzz. As fans eagerly await the next chapter in Hercules' story, one thing is certain: the future of the MCU is looking more godlike than ever before.

Furthermore, the introduction of Hercules might signal a shift in the overall tone and style of the MCU. While the franchise has always been known for its humor and lightheartedness, the inclusion of mythological elements could pave the way for more epic and grandiose storylines. The presence of gods and monsters could elevate the stakes and create a sense of wonder and awe that has been missing in recent films.

The dynamic between Hercules and other established MCU characters is also a source of great anticipation. How will he interact with Thor, the God of Thunder? Will they become allies or rivals? What will his relationship be with the Avengers? These are the questions that fans are eager to see answered.

One particularly exciting possibility is a team-up between Hercules and She-Hulk. Both characters share a similar sense of humor and a willingness to break the fourth wall. A comedic adventure featuring the two heroes could be a delightful and unexpected treat for audiences.

The introduction of Hercules also opens the door to exploring the concept of legacy. As the son of Zeus, Hercules carries a heavy burden of expectation. He must grapple with his father's legacy and forge his own path as a hero. This is a theme that resonates deeply with audiences and could provide a rich source of dramatic tension.

The potential for Hercules to become a symbol of hope and inspiration is also significant. In a world increasingly beset by challenges and uncertainties, Hercules' unwavering commitment to justice and his unwavering belief in the power of good could serve as a beacon of light. He could become a role model for audiences of all ages, inspiring them to stand up for what is right and to never give up hope.

The success of Hercules will depend not only on the creative team's ability to craft compelling storylines but also on their willingness to embrace the character's complexities and contradictions. Hercules is not a flawless hero; he is a flawed and imperfect being who makes mistakes and struggles with his own inner demons. It is these flaws that make him relatable and human.

The portrayal of Hercules' vulnerabilities and his struggles with self-doubt could provide a powerful message to audiences. It could show them that even the strongest and most powerful individuals are not immune to fear and insecurity. This could inspire them to embrace their own imperfections and to strive to become the best versions of themselves.

The future of Hercules in the MCU is uncertain, but one thing is clear: the character has the potential to become a major force in the franchise. With the right creative team and the right storyline, Hercules could become one of the most beloved and enduring heroes in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The world awaits with bated breath to see what adventures await the son of Zeus.

In conclusion, while definitive answers regarding Brett Goldstein's future as Hercules in the MCU remain elusive, the groundwork has been laid for a compelling and multifaceted character arc. The combination of Goldstein's talent, the character's rich mythology, and the boundless creativity of Marvel Studios suggests that Hercules is poised to make a significant impact on the cinematic landscape for years to come. The anticipation continues to build, and fans are eagerly awaiting the moment when the son of Zeus once again graces the screen with his presence.