12 Marvel Characters You Didn't Notice Are Already In The MCU

4. The Ringmaster - Jessica Jones

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness The Living Tribunal
Netflix / Marvel

One of the Hulk's oldest foes is an evil circus manager called Maynard Tiboldt. (No, really.) When his travelling circus failed to make money, he became a criminal called The Ringmaster. Using a mind-controlling hat, he encourages civilians and superheroes to perform crimes on his behalf.

Now, the Ringmaster isn't anyone's favourite supervillain. He has a silly gimmick and he's not particularly threatening. (I mean, he was defeated by Howard the Duck for crying out loud.) With his twirly moustache, star-studded tailcoats, and purple top hat, you'd assume this guy would be way too goofy to work in the MCU.

But not only has he already appeared, he debuted in Jessica Jones, which is probably the last Marvel property you'd expect to incorporate such a zany criminal. Unsurprisingly, his over-the-top nature was drastically toned down for the show. Instead of ruling an evil circus with an iron fist, this incarnation of Dr. Maynard Tiboldt uses his knowledge of hypnotism to help others with repressed memories, including the titular character.

Even though his scenes would've been far more entertaining if Tiboldt resembled his comic book counterpart, it was the right move to give him a more down-to-earth redesign.

Contributor

James Egan has been with Whatculture for five years and prominently works on Horror, Film, and Video Games. He's written over 80 books including 1000 Facts about Horror Movies Vol. 1-3 1000 Facts about The Greatest Films Ever Made Vol. 1-3 1000 Facts about Video Games Vol. 1-3 1000 Facts About James Bond 1000 Facts About TV Shows