Skip to main content

The Marvel Cinematic Universe is an ever-expanding world of characters. Every phase of its existence has only spawned more beloved characters from the original comics. Most of the superheroes have had solo films for audiences to learn more about the characters. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings introduces the MCU’s first Asian superhero lead. Kevin Feige has indicated that he hopes to continue being more diverse in future MCU installments. However, Shang-Chi star Simu Liu’s favorite character from previous phases happens to be Matt Damon’s character from Thor: Ragnarok.

Simu Liu’s ‘Shang-Chi’ casting reaction

Simu Liu smiling at a 'Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings' screening in New York
Simu Liu | Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images

Liu participated in a Reddit AMA in the Marvel Studios subreddit. However, the actor said that he wouldn’t be answering any spoilers.

Some Redditors asked about the meaning behind him being cast for this role. Naturally, it has launched his career in ways that he could never have imagined. The news understandably shocked him. He humorously said that he was, “crying hysterically in my underwear” when he received the news. San Diego Comic-Con announced Liu’s Shang-Chi casting by bringing him on-stage only four days after casting him. The reaction video instantly charmed viewers around the world.

He noted that Feige likely wanted a genuine reaction from Liu when the public announcement was made. He continued: “I’m at home in my Toronto condo in my underwear and then I get a call and my whole life changes. Four days later, I get flown first class to San Diego and end up eating dinner across the table from Angelina Jolie.”

Shang-Chi will forever change Liu’s professional and personal life.

Simu Liu’s favorite MCU character

Marvel Comics has a wide array of heroes. However, the MCU is well-known for making strong casting decisions. Some characters have become fan favorites as a result of the actors’ infectious performances. The public has come to associate these actors with the characters, so some of their likenesses in other mediums have changed to look more like the actors.

One Redditor was curious to know who Liu’s favorite MCU character is. However, they specified from Phases 1-3 to eliminate him being able to say Shang-Chi. However, Liu’s favorite is a funny choice that the Redditor likely didn’t expect: Damon as Loki from Thor: Ragnarok.

The third Thor movie includes a scene where the title character briefly watches a theatre performance. The scene features an over-the-top exchange between Thor and Loki in Thor: The Dark World. However, Luke Hemsworth is the Thor actor, while Damon plays Loki in this dramatic retelling of the gods’ story.

MCU humor

Related

‘Shang-Chi’: Simu Liu and Awkwafina Surprised Co-Star Meng’er Zhang With a Wedding Reception

The MCU is typically lighthearted. It occasionally tackles some deeper issues, although it never shies away from humor. Damon’s appearance as Loki in Thor: Ragnarok is a perfect example of this. Iron Man 3 is another example of fun casting, as Ben Kingsley plays a fake version of The Mandarin.

Shang-Chi incorporates some darker family drama elements, although it has a fair amount of comedy sprinkled throughout. MCU films enjoy incorporating some fun casting decisions for their smaller roles, and Shang-Chi is certainly no exception. Stay tuned for future exciting MCU announcements.