For a decade, comic book enthusiasts, action film lovers and superhero fans watched as Marvel’s Kevin Feige expertly weaved together a superhuman universe. Complete with 23 star-studded movies filled with heart-wrenching losses, hilarious moments and unbelievable action sequences, the first three phases of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, also referred to as the Infinity Saga, kept viewers on the edge of their seats. Fans were desperate to know what was going to happen next.
The story audiences were witnessing unfold since 2008 came to a close with the release of Avengers: Endgame. The epic conclusion to a decade-worth of content seemed like the end of the franchise to many. However, it was only the beginning for the Disney-owned franchise. It provided them with a unique opportunity to introduce new ideas and bring fresh talent to the screen.
Everything About Dominique Thorne
One of budding talent to emerge from this new era of Marvel is Dominique Thorne. The 27-year-old actress portrays Riri Williams, a super genius known as Ironheart, and stars in her very own series. Here everything to know about the young talent, the Ironheart series and more.
Early Life and Career
Born in Brooklyn, New York, Thorne began her career on stage. She starred in several productions as a drama student at the New York’s Professional Performing Arts High School. The Ironheart star won several accolades for her work, including the 2015 United States President Scholar in the Arts award.
Thorne made her feature film debut in Barry Jenkins’ If Beale Street Can Talk. In the romantic drama based on the James Baldwin 1974 novel, she portrayed Sheila Hunt. Her character was the younger sister of lead actor Stephan James’ Fonny Hunt. After premiering at the 2018 Toronto Film Festive, the movie soared and received critical acclaim and accolades. The movie’s success solidified Thorne’s status as a rising star.
Following her role in the film, Thorne was cast alongside actors Daniel Kaluuya and Lakeith Stanfield in Judas and the Black Messiah. The Shaka King-directed film followed the story of Fred Hampton and his fateful betrayal by FBI informant William O’Neal. The movie showed Thorne as Judy Harmon, a member of the Illinois Black Panther Party Chairman’s security team. Her role on this film, which was executive produced by Ryan Coogler and Charles D. King, paved the way for huge role in the new era of Marvel.
Her Role in Marvel’s Ironheart
Feige announced in December 2020 that Thorne would star as Riri Williams and helm her own original series. In August 2024, Thorne opened up to VIBE about how receiving the call from Marvel was both “humbling” and “incredible.” The actress noted that she still had reservations when it came to accepting the role.
“I admittedly had my reservations about accepting this role. I mean, of course to have Marvel call your phone is humbling and incredible, and definitely an honor in a way. But I had questions about what that would [that] look like, and what that would mean, what it could mean,” she told the outlet. “Many of which were coming from a place of fear, to be fully transparent. Fear and concerns about what this would mean for my career. Because I see myself, especially at that time, a theater actor.”
The actress went on to say that while she saw herself in films eventually, all she knew was the theater. She also admitted that she was scared of taking on the role out of fear of being typecasted.
“I was so fearful about the potential to be only ever seen as Ironheart or Riri [Williams],” she said. “When in my heart, I want to do so much. I want to be able to do so much authentically, too. And the idea of being forever tied to this huge character was definitely nerve-wracking for me in the beginning.”
Her Motivations Behind Accepting the Role
Ultimately, Thorne said that she agreed to do the role for two reasons: the meaning behind it and her brothers. The Black Panther: Wakanda Forever star said that the opportunity could help her bring authenticity to the screen. However, for Thorne above all else, the excitement from her brothers, especially her youngest, was “untouchable.”
“That’s a feeling that’s undeniable, it really is,” she said. “So, rather than give into the very loud, fearful thoughts that were in my head at the time, I ultimately made the decision, kind of the risk in my opinion, to give into the intersection of those other two. Which is, how badly I want to see something authentic on screen, and how much I know this means to this little kid who’s so important to me. It’s so much bigger than the impact that you hope to make, or that you think you can make when you think about making a movie.”
What to Expect From the New Series
Marvel’s Ironheart promises to be a action-packed origin story about a young teen developing into a potentially powerful superhero. It will balance technology and wisdom with magic, creating a unique dynamic that will keep viewers interested in the storyline. Premiering on June 24 on Disney+, the six-episode series will showcase Riri Williams evolution from a gifted student to a more seasoned hero.
The series cast includes Anthony Ramos, Lyric Ross, Alden Ehrenreich, Regan Aliyah, Manny Montana, Matthew Elam and Anji White. Additional cast members include Zoe Terakes and Harper Anthony.
Is Ironheart Related to Iron Man?
In the comics, Thorne’s character is a young student attending the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Inspired by Iron Man’s technology, Riri Williams decides to build her own armored suit, setting the ground for her to become Ironheart. While she has no direct familial ties to Iron Man, she is his successor in the comics.
What is the Plot of Ironheart?
Taking place after the events of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Marvel’s Ironheart follows Thorne’s Riri Williams as she returns to her hometown of Chicago. The young, genius inventor returns home with a new determination to create a long lasting impact on the world. While her intelligence and unique take on building suits is impeccable, she attracts the attention of the mysterious, yet charming Parker Robbins, portrayed by Anthony Ramos.
Frequently Asked Questions
What movie was Riri Williams in? Thorne’s Riri Williams made her official debut into the Marvel Cinematic Universe during Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.
Who voices Riri Williams in What If? In Marvel’s What If?, Thorne voiced her character in season three of the animated series. In the episode, she leads rebels against the oppressive Quentin Beck and his Iron Legion.
Is Riri Williams smarter than Tony Stark? While the answer isn’t explicitly stated in the comics, Thorne’s character is known for her aptitude and quick learning abilities. As a super genius, who rebuilt Iron Man’s suit using only scraps, it is possible that her wits may surpass Stark’s.