Marvel’s new series “Runaways” may be a few years out, but judging from the newest Marvel movie, “Doctor Strange,” the studio is already setting up the upcoming Hulu series.
MINOR “DOCTOR STRANGE” SPOILERS FOLLOW:
Towards the final act of “Doctor Strange,” Wong (Benedict Wong) mobilizes the magical masters of the Hong Kong Sanctum to defend against Kaecilius (Mads Mikkelsen). Sharp eyed viewers will spot a certain Asian woman among the group, carrying a staff with a golden circle on top.
This is none other than Tina Minoru, played in the film by Linda Louise Duan. Tina is not only a magical master, but her daughter Nico is a chief member of the Runaways in the Marvel comic by Brian K. Vaughan and Adrian Alphona- who are given special thanks in “Doctor Strange’s” credits.
Not only that, the magical relic she is holding is the Staff of One, which in the comics, is stolen from Tina by Nico, who uses its power for good. The Staff can only be summoned when its user is bleeding and can cast magical spells.
Obviously, this cameo confirms the “Runaways'” existence in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and hints at the Hulu series being developed by Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage. Casting news for the series is further down the line, but it’s safe to say at least one role from the comics is filled. No official word if Duan will reprise her role for the series, but given that it’s Marvel, there’s a high probability Tina will return.
“Runaways” is currently being developed and has no confirmed release date for Hulu.