Marvel's animated series "What If…? Season 2" has come to an end with its nine-episode event release on Disney+. The series serves as a showcase of alternate realities featuring beloved characters from the MCU. Head writer A.C. Bradley discussed the sophomore season, including the freedom to explore lesser-known characters. The series worked on scripts during the pandemic, offering a reprieve from the prevailing gloom. For instance, an episode that was too dark, dubbed 'Children of Men with Spider-Man,' was shelved.

Season 2 explores various what-if scenarios like Nebula joining the Nova Corps, Peter Quill attacking Earth's Mightiest Heroes, and Happy Hogan saving Christmas. It also features the "lost episode" from Season 1 involving Iron Man and the Grandmaster. Another notable episode is "What If… Captain Carter fought the Hydra Stomper?", which picks up from a Season 1 cliffhanger. The season introduces an original character, Kahhori—an indigenous superhero—showing Marvel's commitment to diversity and inclusion. The finale teases that Kahhori is now a part of the MCU, ready to stand alongside its greatest heroes.

An episode centered on Hela and the Ten Rings gives Cate Blanchett’s character a redemption arc. Season 2 also includes a creative riff on Neil Gaiman's "1602" and concludes with a showdown between Captain Carter and Strange Supreme. Despite not being redeemed, Strange Supreme becomes a tragic character who doesn't learn from his mistakes.

The end of Season 2 marks the departure of Bradley as head writer, with Matthew Chauncey taking over for the upcoming third season. Season 2 leaves viewers with the assurance that while a key figure behind the series is moving on, the show itself will continue to expand the MCU in animated form.

What additional characters can we expect from "What If…? Season 3"?

Season 3 is set to bring back the Red Guardian in an episode that was postponed from Season 2. Further character additions haven't been officially revealed, but given the shows penchant for pulling from various corners of the MCU and Marvel comics, viewers can anticipate a diverse and surprising lineup.

"What If…?" has become known for delving into unexplored corners of the Marvel Universe, providing alternate takes on familiar narratives, and bringing forth new stories that challenge our expectations of these well-known superheroes and villains. The series not only revisits key moments and scenarios but also offers a way to reintroduce characters and concepts in novel and unexpected ways. It's part of Marvel Studios' larger endeavor to produce content that appeals to both long-time fans and newcomers, connecting threads from both the MCU films and television while also highlighting self-contained stories with universal themes.