What If…? Season 3: Jun-Fan’s Iron Fist Connection in Marvel Explained

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As a long-time Marvel Comics enthusiast with over two decades of reading under my belt, I must say that Jun-Fan’s introduction in What If…? Season 3 has truly piqued my interest! It’s always exciting to see characters from the comics come to life on screen, especially when they’re as integral to the Iron Fist lore as Kwai Jun-Fan.

I must admit, I was initially taken aback by the decision to portray Jun-Fan as a young boy instead of an adult in this episode. However, after seeing his performance and understanding his role, it’s clear that this adaptation serves a purpose. It gives us a glimpse into his formative years, setting the stage for what we know from the comics.

The connection to Iron Fist hinted at by Kate Bishop has me eagerly awaiting more. I can only imagine the potential stories that could unfold if Jun-Fan were to fully embrace his destiny as the Iron Fist. And let’s not forget the possible collaboration between Jun-Fan and Shang-Chi, a pairing that would undoubtedly make for an action-packed adventure!

Lastly, it’s always intriguing when creative decisions like this are revealed. I can’t help but chuckle at the thought of Bryan Andrews’ initial plans for a Kung-Fu centric episode featuring Danny Rand’s Iron Fist. Imagine if we got to see Shang-Chi and Iron Fist team up in a showdown against The Hood! Alas, it was not meant to be…yet. But who knows? Maybe one day we’ll get to witness that epic battle on the small screen! Until then, I’ll keep my fingers crossed for more Jun-Fan and his Iron Fist exploits in What If…? Season 3.

In the sixth episode of Season 3 on “What If…?”, we were introduced to an exciting new character named Jun-Fan, who is a promising martial artist and may share some ties with Iron Fist. Given this hint, fans are eager to uncover more details about Jun-Fan’s background in the Marvel Comics universe.

Curious about What If…? Season 3’s Jun-Fan? Here’s all you need to know about the character.

Who is Jun-Fan in Marvel Comics and What If…? Season 3?

In the Marvel Universe, Kwai Jun-Fan is an earlier holder of the Iron Fist title, preceding Danny Rand. He debuted in Immortal Iron Fist #17. During the Wild West era in 1878, he assumed the role of Iron Fist. However, he was tragically killed by Zhou Cheng. Interestingly, Zhou Cheng acted as a vessel for Ch’i-Lin, a legendary creature whose mission was to eliminate an Iron Fist on their 33rd birthday and consume the heart to access and devour a dragon egg.

In the third season’s sixth episode of What If…?, Kwai Jun-Fan is placed within the Wild West period, mirroring his comics backdrop. But unlike the original, where he was portrayed as a grown man, in this version, we see him as a young boy instead.

In this episode, the character joins forces with Kate Bishop and Shang-Chi in their mission to locate Shang-Chi’s sister and thwart The Hood. While also searching for his father, he demonstrates his worthiness to the duo. He does so by disclosing crucial information about a phantom train transporting Chinese captives.

Kate Bishop subtly hints at Jun-Fan’s Iron Fist link by implying he possessed “certain iron fists.” It’s worth noting that What If…? director Bryan Andrews revealed in an interview with Agents of Fandom that he initially intended to incorporate Danny Rand’s Iron Fist for a martial arts-focused episode. This proposed episode would have also included Shang-Chi, but Marvel Studios later requested that these plans be abandoned.

What If…? Season 3 is currently streaming on Disney Plus.

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2024-12-30 11:40