Finn Jones IS Marvel’s ‘Iron Fist’

Finally, some casting news we’ve all been dying to hear. Joining the likes of Charlie Cox (as Daredevil), Krysten Ritter (Jessica Jones) and Mike Colter (Luke Cage) in the slew of Marvel’s highly successful Netflix series is Game of Thrones star Finn Jones. Jones will feature as Danny Rand, a man who becomes a highly-skilled martial artist able to focus his own chi in order to intensify his natural self and who adopts the identity of ‘Iron Fist.’

The response to the casting thus far is largely positive, despite pockets of fans pleading for Marvel to consider an Asian-American actor for the part. Previous reports indicate that Marvel did consider this, but ultimately decided against it. Initial responses suggest that many think casting an Asian-American actor would reinforce negative stereotypes due to the characters roots in martial artistry. Frankly, Marvel’s casting thus far of their properties has been completely on-point, so Jones must bring something impressive to the table. Jones is most well known for his part of Loras Tyrell in Game of Thrones where he has proven his acting chops. Although Danny Rand is in an entirely different world altogether, we are ever intrigued and eager to see what Jones brings to the world of Marvel.

Luke Cage and Iron Fist fighting in the comics.

Additionally, this piece of casting news also marks an important stage in the development of Marvel’s properties and their respective presence on Netflix. This is the first time we know the identities of the protagonists that will presumably continue on to star in The Defenders; a team of superheroes that are well known for combating mystic and supernatural threats. Interestingly, The Defenders have previously involved heroes such as Hulk and Doctor Strange who may or may not make an appearance; the latter being the founding member of the original Defenders team.

It is likely – though only speculative at this pointin time – that Rosario Dawson‘s Claire Temple, Simone Missick‘s Misty Knight (who will star alongside Colter in Luke Cage) and even Rachel McAdams – who is set to appear in the MCU in Doctor Strange – will join the aforementioned in The Defenders. Speculation indicates that McAdams may play the part of comic character, Linda Carter, a.k.a. Night Nurse, though nothing is confirmed as of yet. Dawson was previously assumed to be playing the character of Night Nurse across various Netflix series, but Daredevil showrunner Steven S. DeKnight indicated otherwise. On Dawson, he said that the character “was going to be the actual Night Nurse from the comics,” but that “the feature side had plans for her down the road … And we just used another name.”

As of yet, there are no specific details as to the release date of Iron Fist, but it is expected for a late 2016 release. We’ll keep you updated as more comes in.

Source: EW