The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has become a global phenomenon, captivating audiences with its interconnected storytelling and beloved characters. Yet, amidst this sea of successes, there have been moments of missed opportunities, and the underutilisation of Harry Styles is a glaring example. Styles, a British icon known for his magnetic stage presence and acclaimed acting, has been left lingering on the fringes of the MCU. Introduced as Eros, the Eternal also known as Starfox and the brother of Thanos, Styles’ potential has been squandered in two brief and forgettable appearances.
Eros and the Eternals: A Star Never Fully Rising
Harry Styles’ introduction to the MCU in Eternals (2021) was met with both surprise and excitement. Known for his charisma and burgeoning acting credentials, Styles seemed like a natural fit for the enigmatic and alluring Eros. The mid-credit scene teased his role as a key player, accompanied by Pip the Troll, voiced by Patton Oswalt. It was a moment that promised much – a connection to the larger Thanos arc and the potential to explore the cosmos through Eros’ morally complex and hedonistic lens.
However, three years on, that promise remains unfulfilled. Despite the MCU’s sprawling narrative, Eros has been conspicuously absent. Unlike other characters who quickly weave into subsequent storylines, Eros remains a ghost of potential, a character whose future appears increasingly uncertain. The lacklustre reception of Eternals might explain this hesitancy. While Chloe Zhao’s film aimed to deliver a more introspective and diverse superhero story, it struggled to resonate with audiences accustomed to Marvel’s formulaic yet crowd-pleasing approach.
This tepid response likely put a damper on plans for an Eternals sequel, leaving Eros, along with the rest of the film’s ensemble, in limbo. But was this the right call? Abandoning Eros not only sidelines Styles’ undeniable talent but also neglects a narrative thread rich with potential.
Kraven the Hunter: A Cameo Lost in the Noise
In 2024, Harry Styles’ connection to Marvel surfaced again, albeit in an unconventional way. Sony’s Kraven the Hunter featured Styles’ song Sign of the Times as part of a scene showcasing the Chameleon’s voice mimicry abilities. While it was a clever nod to the singer-actor, it fell short of meaningful involvement.
This indirect cameo, relying on pre-existing audio from a 2017 performance on The Graham Norton Show, highlighted how disconnected Styles’ contributions to the Marvel universe have become. Rather than leveraging his star power or integrating Eros into the narrative, Marvel and Sony opted for a tangential reference that did little to enhance either the film or Styles’ MCU presence.
The use of Sign of the Times could have been a moment of brilliance – an opportunity to connect Styles’ artistic identity with the Marvel multiverse. Instead, it felt like a throwaway gesture, emblematic of the wider mismanagement of his character and contributions.
The Cultural Impact of Wasting Harry Styles
Harry Styles is not merely a pop star dabbling in acting. His performances in Dunkirk and Don’t Worry Darling have proven his range and ability to carry complex roles. By casting him as Eros, Marvel tapped into a cultural phenomenon – a figure who commands a global fanbase and embodies a unique blend of charm, intrigue, and gravitas.
Eros, with his complex moral compass and connections to Thanos, offered a rare opportunity to explore themes of power, pleasure, and redemption. In a cinematic universe often criticised for its lack of meaningful character development, Eros could have been a breath of fresh air. Yet, Marvel’s reluctance to fully commit to the character undermines both the MCU’s narrative depth and its cultural relevance.
The MCU thrives on its ability to evolve and reflect the zeitgeist, and incorporating figures like Styles is a strategic move to maintain this resonance. By failing to capitalise on Eros, Marvel risks alienating a generation of fans who see Styles as more than a cameo-worthy celebrity.
Redemption in the MCU’s Future
While the present state of Harry Styles’ Marvel journey is frustrating, hope remains. Marvel Studios has proven adept at course correction, and Eros’ story is far from over. An Eternals sequel, though unconfirmed, is not entirely off the table. With a more focused script and a clear direction for Eros, Marvel could redeem its mishandling of Styles’ character.
Additionally, the MCU’s shift towards exploring cosmic narratives presents an ideal opportunity to reintroduce Eros. With upcoming projects like Fantastic Four and Avengers: Secret Wars, there is ample scope to integrate him into larger storylines. Styles’ portrayal of Eros could serve as a bridge between the MCU’s past and its ambitious future, connecting the grounded drama of Thanos’ legacy with the expansive possibilities of the multiverse.
Furthermore, Marvel must recognise the unique cultural leverage Styles brings to the table. Beyond his acting credentials, Styles embodies a progressive and multifaceted approach to fame – one that aligns with the MCU’s efforts to diversify its storytelling. By crafting a storyline that fully utilises his talents, Marvel could create a cultural moment that resonates far beyond the confines of its cinematic universe.
A Missed Opportunity Worth Rectifying
Harry Styles’ journey in the Marvel Cinematic Universe exemplifies the delicate balance between ambition and execution. While his casting as Eros promised a fresh and intriguing perspective, the lack of follow-through has left fans disheartened. Yet, the very factors that make his current situation frustrating – his talent, charisma, and the richness of Eros’ character – are also reasons to remain optimistic.
Marvel has the tools and the talent to turn this narrative around. By embracing the potential of Styles’ Eros, the MCU can not only correct a misstep but also set a new standard for integrating cultural icons into its ever-expanding universe. In doing so, Marvel would not only honour its commitment to storytelling but also reaffirm its position as a cultural juggernaut capable of capturing imaginations across generations.
Harry Styles deserves better from the MCU. More importantly, the fans deserve to see the potential of Eros realised – a character who could redefine what it means to be a hero in a universe of infinite possibilities.
