Howard the Duck, created by Steve Gerber and Val Mayerik, is a beloved character in the Marvel Universe, debuting in Adventure into Fear #19 in 1973. Now, he has also made a notable appearance in Marvel Animation’s What If…? Season 3, alongside fan-favorite Darcy Lewis, who gained widespread recognition following her role in WandaVision.
The intriguingly titled “What If…Howard the Duck got hitched?” (Season 3, Episode 4) has piqued our interest, and we’re eager to see if it lives up to the season’s previous episodes, which have masterfully blended classic action, old-school Hollywood glamour, and formidable villains. Dive into our review to find out!
Howard the Duck and Darcy Lewis as First-Time Parents!
What If…? Season 3 Episode 4 begins with Darcy Lewis being handed her baby after a 9-hour labor. At this moment, it’s worth recalling Darcy’s previous appearance in the series, alongside Howard the Duck.
Howard is seen holding a camera, recording Darcy as she cradles their baby, revealing him to be the father. This child, it turns out, is destined to change the world.
The Watcher briefly recaps Howard and Darcy’s whirlwind romance, which kicked off at Thor’s lavish Las Vegas party. Be prepared for the absurdity that follows – a delightfully lighthearted addition to the series, marking a welcome midpoint shift in tone with 4 episodes now streaming on Disney+.
Darcy and Howard are savoring parenthood, gently placing their precious egg in a cradle as they await its hatching. This episode is full of delightful details, such as Darcy’s “Quack” sweatshirt.
As the couple enjoys a serene night together, their peace is disrupted by a loud knock at the door. For a moment, we wonder if it’s the TVA, but the surprise is actually an invitation: two tickets to the Grandmaster’s extravagant Cruise Across the Stars.
“Couples cliff diving on Vormir” were words we never thought we’d come across, but that’s the beauty of What If…? Even the wildest possibilities can come true. Darcy and Howard soon find themselves on the Grandmaster’s Cruise Across the Stars, where they’re greeted with vodka cocktails and a charismatic host. However, all eyes are on their prized egg.
Panic sets in when the egg is stolen, leaving Howard and Darcy frantic as first-time parents. Fortunately, S.H.I.E.L.D. springs into action, with Nick Fury taking the lead.
As Howard and Darcy soon discover the reason behind the egg’s high demand, they embark on a perilous journey to Knowhere, determined to rescue their precious offspring. Things only get more absurd from here, but this episode doesn’t have a single dull moment!
Conclusion
What If…? Season 3 Episode 4 brings together a delightful ensemble of beloved Marvel characters, paired with a refreshingly playful premise that injects a lighthearted tone into this season. We couldn’t help but thoroughly enjoy the ride!