The Marvel Cinematic Universe’s groundbreaking animated series, What If…?, made its debut on Disney+ on August 11, 2021, captivating audiences for three thrilling seasons, ultimately concluding on December 29, 2024. This innovative series provided a creative platform for writers to delve into the expansive Marvel multiverse, showcasing intriguing variants of beloved characters and introducing exciting, novel concepts that enriched the franchise. Notably, What If…? marks a significant milestone as the inaugural animated series produced by Marvel Studios Animation. In a recent interview, Brad Winderbaum, the head of Marvel Studios’ television, animation, and streaming divisions, shared insights about the show’s enduring legacy and articulated why the Season 3 finale was “extremely satisfying” yet “heartbreaking.”

Brad Winderbaum Discusses the Impact of What If…? on Marvel Animation

The final episode of the third season, Episode 8 of What If…?, premiered on December 29, 2024, on Disney+, marking a pivotal moment for the series and its influence on the MCU franchise. As Marvel’s first animated endeavor, it laid the groundwork for Marvel Studios Animation and inspired the creation of several subsequent projects. In an insightful interview with ComicBook.com, Winderbaum reflected on the show’s conclusion, emphasizing that many of the animated projects that followed would not have occurred without the innovative groundwork established by What If…?.

Winderbaum expressed a mix of emotions regarding the show’s ending, stating, “I feel like the ending makes me feel very happy and very sad at the same time. It’s extremely satisfying. And it’s heartbreaking.” He elaborated that this heartbreak extends beyond the characters to those involved in the production, highlighting the deep connections formed throughout the show’s journey.

Continuing his thoughts, the executive producer remarked, “You know, this is the show that launched it all.” He emphasized that without What If…?, there would be no Marvel Studios Animation nor the animated series that have followed since 2021. These include popular titles like X-Men ’97, I Am Groot, Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man, and Marvel Zombies. Notably, the latter is set in the same alternate universe introduced in the What If…? episode titled “What If… Zombies?!” from Season 1, Episode 5.

Winderbaum conveyed the emotional weight of the series finale, stating, “It was a heavy weight to see it ride off into the sunset,” before describing the conclusion as “a beautiful culmination” for the characters, particularly the Watcher. This reflection underscores the profound impact the series has had on both the characters and the broader narrative landscape of the Marvel universe.

The series finale of What If…? features Captain Peggy Carter heroically sacrificing herself to save her friends. In a poignant moment, the Watcher aids others of his kind in realizing the importance of learning while observing the myriad infinite realities. As the narrative concludes, characters Kahhori, Byrdie, and Storm embark on their new roles as the Watchers of the multiverse, signifying a new chapter in this expansive and storied universe.

Originally reported by Tamal Kundu on SuperHeroHype.