To fuel the conflict, Killmonger orchestrates a confrontation between the U.S. military and . He kills James Rhodes , Black Panther (T'Challa) , and eventually Tony Stark himself, framing the Wakandans for the murders. This allows Killmonger to return to his ancestral home of Wakanda as a "hero" who has "avenged" T'Challa and killed the American invaders. By the end of the episode, he successfully consumes the Heart-Shaped Herb and becomes the new Black Panther , while Shuri and Pepper Potts begin to uncover his web of lies. Key Themes
voices Tony Stark, effectively capturing the pre-reformation version of the character.
Without the shrapnel in his chest and the influence of Ho Yinsen , Tony Stark remains an arrogant, weapons-dealing billionaire. This highlights that Tony’s heroism was a result of his trauma and growth, not just his genius.
After returning to the U.S., Tony rewards Killmonger by making him the new , replacing Obadiah Stane . Killmonger quickly manipulates Tony into building a fleet of automated combat drones using vibranium —which Killmonger "acquires" through a black-market deal with Ulysses Klaue .
Like many episodes in the series, the story ends on a cliffhanger, suggesting a brewing resistance led by the younger generation (Shuri). Cast and Production
The episode showcases Killmonger’s brilliance as a tactician. Unlike other villains who rely on brute force, he wins through geopolitical maneuvering and playing his enemies against each other.
This episode of Marvel Studios’ , titled "What If... Killmonger Rescued Tony Stark?" , reimagines the foundational events of the Marvel Cinematic Universe by altering the catalyst of the first Iron Man film. The Divergence Point
