I still remember the first time I spotted Howard the Duck in Guardians of the Galaxy. My reaction was a mix of laughter and confusion.
I thought, Wait, is that really a talking duck in the MCU? Fast forward to Avengers: Endgame, and there he was again, not just as a random cameo but fighting alongside the Avengers against Thanos.
I couldn’t help but wonder, Why on Earth, or anywhere in the galaxy, would Howard get involved in this epic battle?
As it turns out, there might be a much deeper reason for Howard’s surprising appearance in Endgame, and it’s tied to loss, love, and revenge.
Howard’s Quirky Life in the MCU
Howard’s journey through the MCU started in Guardians of the Galaxy (2014).
He was trapped in The Collector’s Museum, sipping a drink and cracking jokes even as chaos unfolded around him.
His next appearance in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 showed him living it up on Contraxia, a wild party planet where he joked with Ravagers and seemed to embrace a carefree life.
But things changed after Avengers: Infinity War. Like so many others, Howard’s world was shattered by The Snap.
According to a popular theory, he lost someone incredibly important – possibly Beverly Switzler, a companion from the comics who shared a special bond with him.
This suggests Howard wasn’t just fighting for the universe in Endgame; he was fighting to avenge someone he loved.
The Personal Motivation Behind the Fight
If you’ve read the comics, you’ll know that Beverly and Howard share a close connection. Some see it as a quirky friendship, while others interpret it as a unique romance.
In this theory, Beverly and Howard may have crossed paths between Guardians Vol. 2 and Infinity War.
Maybe they even built a life together. Then came the worst day of Howard’s life – watching her disintegrate in front of him during The Snap.
I can imagine how that moment must have haunted him. Five years later, when The Blip brought everyone back, Howard had his chance to fight for a universe where Beverly could return.
That’s why there we are, a marvelous duck armed with a gun and his determination, Howard joined the battle against Thanos!
Last Words
What I love about Howard’s appearance in Endgame is how unexpected it was. He’s not a super soldier, a god, or a genius inventor.
He’s a talking duck who loves martinis and sarcastic humor. But that’s exactly what makes his presence so powerful., not the size nor the strength, but the heart.
After Endgame, I can’t help but hope we see more of Howard in the MCU. His story has so much potential, especially if Beverly is brought into the fold.
The multiverse saga opens doors for all kinds of crazy adventures, and I’d love to see Howard take center stage.