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The Marvel Cinematic Universe is known for its grand superhero battles, but it’s also home to some of the darkest, most emotionally charged episodes that delve deep into the complexities of grief, trauma, and moral ambiguity. These moments push the boundaries of the superhero genre, offering a rare glimpse into the psychological and emotional toll faced by beloved characters. From heart-wrenching losses to soul-crushing betrayals, these episodes highlight the raw, human side of the MCU, often leaving fans with lingering feelings of helplessness and sorrow.
When it comes to looking at the darkest episodes of MCU TV shows, the most memorable ones stand out not just for their intensity but for their profound exploration of real-world issues. These episodes feature unforgettable performances that explore themes of loss, regret, and the descent into darkness, offering a stark contrast to the usual hero-versus-villain dynamic. Whether it’s through tragic backstories, brutal confrontations, or emotional breakdowns, these episodes have a lasting impact, proving that even in the world of superheroes, darkness can take center stage.
10
“Scorpion Rising” (Season 1, Episode 7)
‘Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man’ (2025 – Present)
Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man
3.5
/5
Release Date
January 29, 2025
Network
Disney+
Writers
Charlie Neuner
-
Hudson Thames
Peter Parker / Spider-Man (voice)
-
Kari Wahlgren
May Parker (voice)
“Scorpion Rising” marks a dramatic shift into darker, more intense territory for Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man, with Mac Gargan’s full transformation into the vicious villain Scorpion. The episode is marked by its brutal, high-stakes violence, with Scorpion not only showcasing his physical power but also committing horrific acts, including on-screen murders. The once-ordinary Gargan evolves into one of the most merciless and strongest Spider-Man villains, posing a serious threat to the hero. His violent encounters with Peter intensify, forcing the hero to confront the kind of danger that pushes him to his limits.
This episode delves deeper into the moral complexity of the characters, particularly Norman Osborn’s darker inclinations and the escalating involvement of Lonnie, whose actions heighten the feeling of unease. The tone of the episode is ominous, as it introduces a world where even the strongest heroes face ruthless, brutal opposition. “Scorpion Rising” highlights the stark violence and deepening moral ambiguity, adding a layer of darkness that sets a more grim tone for the series.
9
“Darkest Hour/Wake Thy Power” (Season 1, Episode 5)
‘Agatha All Along’ (2024)
The fifth episode of Agatha All Along takes a chilling turn as Agatha’s darkest secrets come to light, and the true nature of her enemies is revealed. In a shocking twist, the Salem Seven are unmasked as the otherworldly offspring of a dark and powerful entity, setting a sinister tone that lingers throughout the episode. Agatha’s magic is violently drained, leaving her defenseless as her allies are turned against her one by one. Adding to the grim atmosphere is the introduction of Lady Death, who calmly collects the bodies of those who have fallen, exuding a sense of inevitable doom. The hopelessness of Agatha’s plight is palpable, and her vulnerability is laid bare as the coven’s betrayal unfolds.
The episode’s most disturbing sequence comes when Wiccan, now transformed into a vengeful force, exerts his newfound power by compelling Lilia and Jen to betray Agatha. As the controlled witches lure Agatha into a deep, dark mud trap, the suspense reaches a fever pitch during one of the show’s most intense scenes. Agatha, Jen, and Lilia struggle and beg for help as they slowly sink beneath the surface, the quicksand consuming them with terrifying finality. The haunting visual of Agatha’s once formidable presence being reduced to helplessness is both emotionally devastating and thematically resonant. The episode’s dark, twisted themes of betrayal, guilt, and loss make it one of the MCU’s most harrowing and unsettling TV moments.
8
“Ronin” (Season 1, Episode 5)
‘Hawkeye’ (2021)
Release Date
2021 – 2020
Writers
Don Heck, Jonathan Igla
The darkest episode of Hawkeye comes in “Ronin,” where Clint Barton’s past as the ruthless vigilante Ronin comes back to haunt him, and Kate Bishop’s world is shattered by betrayal. As Clint prepares to confront Maya Lopez, the episode delves into the brutal reality of his actions as Ronin, including the massacre of Maya’s father and his gang. The moral consequences of his vigilante rampage weigh heavily on Clint as he acknowledges the blood on his hands. The episode’s tension escalates as Clint’s enemies grow more relentless, and Maya’s thirst for revenge reaches a boiling point. The theme of accountability in the face of past mistakes makes “Ronin” one of the series’ most emotionally intense and haunting episodes.
However, the episode’s darkest moment comes when Kate uncovers the shocking truth about her mother, Eleanor Bishop. Discovering that Eleanor hired Yelena Belova to kill Clint and has been secretly working with Kingpin all along leaves Kate devastated and questioning everything she once believed. The heartbreaking realization that her mother is entangled in crime and murder leaves Kate disillusioned, casting a shadow over her aspirations as a hero and spotlighting one of Hailee Steinfeld’s best performances.
As the web of lies and conspiracies unravels, Clint and Kate find themselves more vulnerable than ever, facing enemies from all sides. This brutal revelation transforms Eleanor from a protective figure into a tragic antagonist, highlighting how betrayal from a loved one can be more devastating than any physical threat.
7
“Glorious Purpose” (Season 2, Episode 6)
‘Loki’ (2021 – 2023)
Release Date
2021 – 2022
Network
Disney+
The series finale of Loki delivers an emotionally charged conclusion as Loki fulfills his “glorious purpose” by sacrificing himself to save the timelines and the TVA. In “Glorious Purpose,” Loki’s journey of self-discovery reaches its darkest and most profound moment. After countless time-slips and failed attempts to save the multiverse, Loki learns that the Temporal Loom was designed as a failsafe to preserve the Sacred Timeline, wiping out branching timelines and the TVA if overwhelmed. Determined to break the cycle of destruction, Loki sacrifices himself, embracing his role as the God of Stories while holding the timelines together with his own power. His decision to save everyone rather than pursue his own desires marks a heartbreaking evolution from a self-serving trickster to a selfless hero.
This episode’s emotional weight is heightened by the symmetry between the series premiere and finale. The title, “Glorious Purpose,” originally symbolized Loki’s ambition to rule, but it ultimately reflects his willingness to bear the burden of preserving the multiverse. The tragedy lies in how Loki, after years of feeling overlooked and unloved, finally claims a throne – one rooted in sacrifice rather than power, putting a bittersweet end to one of the highest-rated MCU TV shows. The episode’s tone is steeped in melancholy and reflection as the God of Mischief’s quest for significance culminates in the ultimate act of heroism. It’s a haunting reminder that even the most mischievous villain can find redemption at a profound cost.
6
“The Whole World Is Watching” (Season 1, Episode 4)
‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier’ (2021)
“The Whole World is Watching” stands as one of the darkest episodes in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier and the entire MCU television lineup. As John Walker’s mental state unravels, the series confronts the consequences of attempting to replace Steve Rogers with a government-appointed Captain America. Walker’s fragile sense of duty and identity crumbles under the weight of his new role, especially as he debates the ethics of taking the super serum and navigates the returning presence of Helmut Zemo. Meanwhile, Bucky Barnes fights to overcome his own trauma and escape the dark legacy of the Winter Soldier. Yet, nothing prepares viewers for the brutal climax that defines this episode’s unflinching darkness.
When Walker’s partner Battlestar is killed during a chaotic battle, his grief and anger boil over into a horrifying act of violence. Determined to avenge his friend, he chases down a fleeing Flag Smasher named Nico and savagely beats him to death with the iconic shield. The public execution is captured on countless smartphones, leaving Walker standing amid a sea of onlookers with the bloodstained shield gripped in his hands, a now infamous image from the most underrated MCU Phase 4 project.
The world is left reeling at the image of Captain America as a ruthless killer – an indelible stain on the symbol of hope and heroism that Steve Rogers once represented. The stark contrast between the two Captains serves as a grim commentary on the corrupting influence of power and the devastating consequences of unchecked rage.
5
“Asylum” (Season 1, Episode 5)
‘Moon Knight’ (2022)
Release Date
March 30, 2022
Network
Disney Channel
The fifth episode of Moon Knight delivers one of the most gut-wrenching and emotionally raw moments in the entire MCU. After spending much of the series unraveling the mystery behind Marc Spector and his alter Steven Grant, viewers finally confront the devastating truth of Marc’s childhood trauma. In a series of heartbreaking flashbacks, Marc remembers how his younger brother Randall drowned in a flooded cave, leading their mother, Wendy, to spiral into grief and blame Marc for the tragedy. Wendy’s overwhelming anger transformed into abuse, leaving Marc desperate to escape his reality.
His fractured mind created Steven Grant, a cheerful personality who believed Wendy was a loving parent. The most brutal blow comes when Steven learns the truth about their past and the fantasy he’s been living. Oscar Isaac’s poignant performance in this episode captures the surprisingly realistic pain of repressed trauma, making it one of the darkest and most powerful chapters in the MCU’s television lineup.
Related
10 Plot Threads From ‘Moon Knight’ the MCU Has Yet to Address
Moon Knight left fans with more questions than answers by injecting several perplexing new plots into the MCU.
4
“Previously On” (Season 1, Episode 8)
‘WandaVision’ (2021)
“Previously On” is the emotional climax of WandaVision, delivering one of the most heart-wrenching and tragic episodes in the MCU’s television history. In a series of gut-punching flashbacks, viewers finally see the depth of Wanda Maximoff’s grief and how it led to her creation of the Westview anomaly and accidentally one of the most powerful magic users in the MCU. Guided by Agatha Harkness, Wanda is forced to confront her past – losing her parents to a Stark Industries bomb, enduring Hydra’s cruel experiments, and the crushing pain of Vision’s death. Sitcoms, which were once her solace amid chaos, become the foundation of her new reality, as Wanda’s powers unconsciously transform Westview into a comforting illusion.
The most devastating revelation comes when Wanda visits S.W.O.R.D. headquarters, only to see Vision’s corpse mantled and experimented on. Contrary to Tyler Hayward’s earlier claims, Wanda leaves without taking Vision’s body, peacefully retreating to Westview. In a moment of profound loss and longing, she conjures a home where they could have grown old together. Unable to contain her pain any longer, Wanda unleashes her reality-warping powers, creating a new Vision and transforming the town into a black-and-white sitcom world. This defining moment solidifies her evolution into the Scarlet Witch and underscores the haunting impact of unresolved grief – a powerful and dark chapter in the MCU.
3
“The Hollow of His Hand” (Season 1, Episode 3)
‘Daredevil: Born Again’ (2025 – Present)
The darkest episode of Daredevil: Born Again so far is undoubtedly “The Hollow of His Hand.” Following the brutal death of Foggy Nelson in the first episode, this episode’s devastating conclusion solidifies its place as one of the bleakest in the MCU, as Matt’s hard-won legal victory against Bullseye is rendered meaningless. Despite successfully exonerating Hector, Matt’s latest client and the alter ego of the vigilante White Tiger, the triumph is short-lived when Hector is killed by an unknown assailant brandishing the Punisher symbol – suggesting that the corrupt forces Matt confronted in court have found another way to manipulate justice.
The haunting final moments, with credits rolling over the sounds of Hector’s favorite Puerto Rican beach, leave viewers with a profound sense of loss and helplessness. As Matt questions the value of his crusade as Daredevil and his belief in the justice system, the episode masterfully captures the bleak reality of fighting corruption when it’s ingrained within the very system he swore to protect.
Related
‘Daredevil: Born Again’: 6 Clear Parallels Between Matt Murdock and Wilson Fisk
Wilson Fisk is Matt Murdock’s biggest enemy, but there are more parallels between the two than they’d want to admit.
2
“Taloa” (Season 1, Episode 4)
‘Echo’ (2024)
Release Date
2024 – 2023
Network
Hulu, Disney+
Directors
Catriona McKenzie
-
Mary Louise Gemmill
Marlene Fisk (voice)
-
Chaske Spencer
Henry ‘Black Crow’ Lopez
In Echo‘s fourth episode, the series dives into Maya Lopez’s troubled past and complicated relationships, offering one of the MCU’s most intense and unsettling hours. The episode highlights the devastating impact of generational trauma, as Maya’s estranged grandmother, Chula, admits to abandoning her after losing her daughter. This heartbreaking revelation leaves Maya grappling with feelings of betrayal and loneliness. Adding to the darkness of this gritty crime drama, Maya’s uncle Henry, who works under Kingpin, candidly discusses his own regrets and the suffocating reality of being trapped in Fisk’s criminal empire. He warns Maya to avoid the same path, but his words fall on conflicted ears, given her desire for both vengeance and family connection.
The episode’s most chilling moments revolve around Kingpin himself, who shows his utter disregard for Maya’s needs when he kills an interpreter rather than putting in the effort to learn sign language. In a twisted bonding moment, Fisk confesses to Maya that he killed his father and even gives her a disturbing memento from that act. A flashback reveals how Kingpin’s violent protection of young Maya shaped her understanding of power and dominance. These unflinching depictions of trauma and brutal mentorship set Echo apart from other MCU shows, painting a grim portrait of Maya’s world and the consequences of her upbringing.
1
“What If… Doctor Strange Lost His Heart Instead of His Hands?” (Season 1, Episode 4)
‘What If…?’ (2021–2024)
3.5
/5
Release Date
2021 – 2024
Showrunner
Ashley Bradley
Directors
Bryan Andrews
The animated series What If…? explores some of the MCU’s darkest possibilities, but few episodes are as tragic as the fourth episode of the series. In this bleak alternate reality, Stephen Strange’s journey to master the mystic arts is driven not by the loss of his hands but by the death of his beloved Christine Palmer. Consumed by grief, Strange becomes obsessed with reversing her fate, no matter the cost. As he absorbs the unimaginable dark power and manipulates time itself, his desperation becomes his downfall. Each failed attempt only fractures reality further, and despite his relentless determination, Christine’s death remains an unchangeable “absolute point” in time and makes for a tragic TV romance.
When the universe begins to collapse due to his reckless actions, Strange is left to face the consequences of his obsession. In one of the MCU’s most haunting moments, he pleads with The Watcher to save his crumbling world, but even this omnipotent being refuses to intervene. As his universe disintegrates into nothingness, Strange’s final realization of his own hubris is gut-wrenching. Alone in an empty void of his own making, Strange Supreme becomes a cautionary tale about the destructive power of unchecked ambition and the consequences of meddling with fate.
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