As Matt Murdock readies for a comeback in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, a Marvel Studios producer on the Echo TV show reaffirms the canonical status of Netflix's Daredevil series within the broader franchise. Despite a modest number of Marvel movies in 2024, there's a considerable lineup of exciting MCU shows set to premiere exclusively on Disney+.

According to Winderbaum, Marvel Studios officially includes Daredevil in its central timeline, noting its significance in upcoming Phase Five shows like Echo. "I can say that up until this point, we've been a little bit cagey about what's Sacred Timeline, what's not Sacred Timeline. That was born of, frankly, a period at the studio where we were like, 'We have to stick the landing with the vendors.' It was another part of the company developing the Netflix stuff. We were aware of what they were doing, they were aware of what we were doing, but there was a lot to balance anyway," he explained. The producer added, "But now that some time has passed; now that we see actually how well integrated the stories are, I think that I personally, Brad Winderbaum, would be confident in saying it is part of the Sacred Timeline." 

Daredevil: Born Again' Directors Share Update on Series

While Winderbaum's perspective may not constitute an official statement, it aligns with the logical integration of Daredevil into Marvel Studios' new Sacred Timeline, especially considering the character's previous appearances in various MCU projects. Given the studio's shift towards prioritizing quality over quantity in their approach to upcoming projects, it presents an opportune moment to revamp Daredevil: Born Again and firmly establish it as an integral part of the MCU. 

Winderbaum's declaration opens the door for additional Netflix Marvel characters to join the MCU fold. The inclusion of well-established figures such as Punisher, Jessica Jones, Luke Cage, and the Runaways could prove highly advantageous for Marvel, enriching the overall continuity. A potential avenue for this integration is through the newly established Marvel Spotlight banner, focusing on more grounded narratives. There's speculation that Jon Bernthal's Punisher might be the next Netflix star to seamlessly transition into the MCU.

Echo is coming to Disney+ on January 9, 2024.