'Wonder Man' gambles on satire with superpowers

With Yahya Abdul-Mateen II at the centre, Marvel turns camera on Hollywood, fame and the business of making heroes

Marvel Television has released the full trailer for action-comedy series 'Wonder Man', offering the clearest look yet at Simon Williams' powers ahead of the series' debut on Disney+ on January 27.

The series stars Yahya Abdul-Mateen II as Williams, an actor whose life changes dramatically after discovering he has superhuman abilities. In the show, Williams is cast to play the superhero 'Wonder Man' in a film within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, only to realise that he is developing real powers at the same time.

The newly released trailer highlights the gradual emergence of those abilities and suggests that keeping his secret will be nearly impossible. Footage also confirms the involvement of Damage Control, indicating that government oversight and public scrutiny will play a role in the story.

Ben Kingsley reprises his MCU role as Trevor Slattery, the actor who famously posed as The Mandarin in 'Iron Man 3'. The trailer frames Slattery as Williams' unlikely partner, positioning the series as a buddy comedy that blends superhero action with meta commentary about Hollywood and fame. Zlatko Buri? appears as fictional director Von Kovak, adding another layer to the show's self-aware tone.

Marvel has openly positioned 'Wonder Man' as a response to ongoing discussions about "superhero fatigue," leaning into humour and self-reflection rather than avoiding the criticism. Abdul-Mateen previously promoted the project in character, emphasising the show's playful approach to Marvel storytelling.

The series is overseen by Daniel Destin Cretton, best known for 'Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings', who is also attached to the upcoming 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day'. While Marvel has not confirmed Simon Williams' future in the wider MCU, speculation continues about a possible connection to Avengers: Doomsday.