Disney+ premiered Marvel’s latest superhero series, Ironheart, on June 24, 2025, releasing the first three episodes of the six-part miniseries. The show centers on Riri Williams, a teenage tech prodigy portrayed by Dominique Thorne, who first appeared in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022). Set in the aftermath of that film, Ironheart follows Riri as she returns to her hometown of Chicago, grappling with personal loss, academic challenges, and a new adversary blending magic and crime.
Created by Chinaka Hodge and produced by Ryan Coogler’s Proximity Media, Ironheart aims to bridge the gap between grounded storytelling and the broader Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). The series explores themes of ambition, grief, and the intersection of technology and mysticism. Riri, expelled from MIT for misusing resources, continues her quest to build advanced armor rivaling Iron Man’s, leading her into conflict with Parker Robbins, also known as The Hood, a villain portrayed by Anthony Ramos who introduces a magical element to the narrative.
The supporting cast includes Lyric Ross as Natalie Washington, Riri’s late best friend whose consciousness is preserved as an AI; Alden Ehrenreich as Joe McGillicuddy; Regan Aliyah; Manny Montana; Matthew Elam; and Anji White. Episodes are directed by Sam Bailey and Angela Barnes, with the final three episodes scheduled for release on July 1, 2025.
Critics have offered mixed reviews. Some praise Thorne’s performance and the show’s ambition, while others critique its pacing and character development. The series holds a 68% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, indicating a moderate reception.
Ironheart serves as the concluding chapter of MCU Phase Five, setting the stage for upcoming projects in Phase Six, including The Fantastic Four, slated for release on July 25, 2025. The series is available exclusively on Disney+.
