Actor Mike Colter has been asked about Luke Cage returning to Marvel ever since the Netflix show was cancelled back in 2018.
After making a surprise, unannounced return as the character in the Daredevil: Born Again Season 2 finale, Colter's Luke Cage will reportedly have a much bigger role to play in season 3.
Production on Season 3 officially wrapped in July, and fans already have plenty to dig into while they wait.
Between behind-the-scenes set photos and recent fan convention cast interviews, it’s clear Luke Cage will play a major role right alongside Finn Jones' Danny Rand/Iron Fist. Marvel Studios is essentially pulling off a full-on Defenders reunion here, and perhaps showcasing the street-level Heroes for Hire as they were always meant to be depicted.
Speaking to Collider to promote his upcoming CBS law drama Cupertino, Colter stated that he's happy to return to Marvel, predominantly to please the fans that have been campaigning for his return for so long.
On his return as Cage, Colter stated, "It wasn’t at the forefront of my mind, but I really enjoyed playing the character. I probably enjoy it as much for the fans than anything. I think the diehard Luke Cage fans and Marvel fans enjoy these characters, so it’s bringing a bit of joy to their lives. That’s where I am on it right now. I love doing it for the people."
Colter further commented on his comeback, likening it to a classic rock band that suddenly goes on tour after a long hiatus.
"Even if they hadn’t played for years, you pick it back up, even if it’s for a night. Oasis took 20 years. It doesn’t matter, people want to see Oasis get back together. ABBA stopped, but if ABBA came back and did a reunion, we’re going to go see it," said Colter.
He continued, "There’s always someone who wants to see that greatness. I don’t care how long it takes, we will wait. And if they come back, we will be there. That’s how I feel about The Defenders and Luke Cage. If you bring it back, somebody will be interested in seeing it.”
Daredevil: Born Again Season 3 is scheduled to premiere in March 2027 for another 8-episode Disney+ run.
The third season of the revival reportedly picks up six months after the explosive Season 2 finale with Matt Murdock in prison for his past vigilante actions and former New York Mayor Wilson Fisk living in exile and desperate to rebuild his empire.
According to showrunner Dario Scardapane, season 3 will see the introduction of several classic street-level Marvel villains who step in to fill the vacuum created by the Kingpin's exit. Likewise, The Defenders reunite to carry on Daredevil's work while he's in prison.