Marvel Studios has officially confirmed the return of Bradley Cooper as Rocket Raccoon in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) following his appearance in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. After the third installment of the Guardians saga, fans had been speculating about the fate of Cooper’s beloved character.
Rocket’s Unexpected Survival
Speculation had been rife that Rocket Raccoon might meet his demise in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, but the film’s conclusion surprised fans by setting him up to lead a new incarnation of the Guardians team. However, the timeline of Rocket’s return had remained a mystery, especially with Guardians of the Galaxy 4 seemingly distant on the horizon.
Bradley Cooper’s MCU Comeback
Bradley Cooper‘s return to the MCU was realized in the second season of the Disney+ series I Am Groot. Cooper lent his voice to Rocket Raccoon in an off-screen cameo during Episode 3 of the series, marking his official return to the Marvel universe.
Unexpected Rocket Raccoon Cameo
Cooper’s involvement in I Am Groot Season 2 was confirmed in the episode credits. The cameo occurs when Baby Groot inadvertently knocks a mug off a table, and it appears to hit Rocket Raccoon on its way down. This delightful surprise thrilled fans of the character who had eagerly awaited his return.
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Rocket’s Future Appearances
While Rocket’s return is exciting news for fans, it’s worth noting that I Am Groot takes place between the events of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 1 and Vol. 2. Nevertheless, it’s a welcome development for those anticipating Rocket’s next appearance in the MCU.
As of now, there are no confirmed plans for the Guardians of the Galaxy or Rocket Raccoon in the upcoming Marvel Studios slate. However, there is a possibility they could make a cameo in The Marvels, given its cosmic setting. Still, with an already packed lineup of heroes, this remains uncertain.
Fans eagerly awaiting more of the Guardians may have to wait for the next Avengers films, The Kang Dynasty and Secret Wars, unless Marvel announces Guardians of the Galaxy 4 or the hinted Star-Lord solo movie.
I Am Groot Season 2 is currently available for streaming on Disney+, allowing fans to enjoy more of the lovable band of misfits as they await Rocket Raccoon’s return to the big screen.