The Marvel Cinematic Universe is known for its vast array of iconic superheroes and their heroic feats. However, amid all the action and adventure, there are also parents who play significant roles in the lives of these superheroes. From Tony Stark to Scott Lang, the MCU is home to some of the most memorable parent-child relationships in recent cinematic history.
Based on the qualities and characteristics that make these parents stand out, and how they influence their children's lives, fans created a general idea of who can be considered a good parent in the MCU. From the nurturing guidance of Aunt May to the wise teachings of King T’Chaka, the MCU offers a wide range of parental styles that leave a lasting impact on their children's journeys.
10 Ying Li
Ying Li is a relatively lesser-known character in the MCU, but her role as a parent is crucial to the story of Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. As the mother of Shang-Chi and Xu Xialing, Ying Li is shown to be a compassionate and caring parent who loves her children deeply. She is also a strong fighter and has taught her children martial arts from a young age, instilling in them a strong sense of discipline and perseverance.
Ying Li's teachings and love for her children are what ultimately lead them to their victory against their father, Xu Wenwu. Despite her short screen time, Ying Li is an important character in the MCU and a shining example of a good parent, giving her life in order to protect her children.
9 Yondu Udonta
Yondu is best known for being the leader of the Ravagers and the adoptive father of Peter Quill, in the Guardians of the Galaxy films. Yondu's parenting skills are somewhat unorthodox and unconventional, as he initially kidnaps Peter as a child to use him as a thief, but over time he develops a bond with the boy and becomes a surrogate father figure.
Despite his tough exterior and gruff demeanor, Yondu ultimately sacrifices himself to save Peter's life, showing that he cares deeply for his son's well-being. Fans appreciate Yondu's unique approach to parenting and his ultimate act of love and selflessness, which makes him one of the most beloved parental figures in the MCU.
8 Wanda Maximoff
Wanda Maximoff is initially introduced as a troubled and grieving individual who has suffered great loss in her life. Her journey as a parent begins in the WandaVision series, where she creates an alternate reality in which she can live with her husband, Vision, and their two children. In Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, fans see a more violent Wanda, ready to destroy everything and everyone that stands in the way of getting her boys back. She is willing to even kill her own alternate self.
Despite the questionable ethics of her actions, it is clear that Wanda loves her children deeply and is fiercely protective of them. She displays a willingness to do anything to keep them safe, even if it means sacrificing her own desires and needs. While her methods may be reprehensible, her love for her children is undeniable.
7 Maria Rambeau
Maria Rambeau is a highly skilled pilot and the best friend of Carol Danvers, also known as Captain Marvel. She is a devoted mother to her daughter, Monica Rambeau, and plays a vital role in supporting her daughter's dreams and aspirations. Maria is shown to be a protective mother who instills strong values in her daughter, teaching her to be brave and independent.
Even when Maria is diagnosed with cancer, she continues to be a source of strength and guidance for Monica, ensuring that she is well-prepared to face the world on her own. Maria's unwavering support and love for her daughter make her an admirable parent, and her character is highly respected by fans.
6 Scott Lang
Scott Lang, aka Ant-Man, is a completely dedicated father to his daughter, Cassie. His love for Cassie is apparent in his actions, as he takes great lengths to protect and provide for her. Despite his initial reluctance to be a superhero due to the risks involved, he decides to use his powers for the greater good and to set an example for his daughter.
In Quantumania, Scott is willing to give his life for Cassie's safety, and he thinks of her as his light in the dark when he feels lost. His caring nature, combined with his sense of humor, make him a lovable and relatable character who serves as a great example of a devoted parent.
5 May Parker
May Parker is a significant character in the MCU and plays an important role in the life of Peter Parker, also known as Spider-Man. She took on the responsibility of raising Peter after the death of his parents and has been a guiding force for him ever since.
As a parent figure, May is warm, caring, and nurturing. She is always there to support and encourage Peter in his endeavors, even when it means putting herself in danger. Her unwavering love and support for Peter have made her one of the most beloved and respected parental figures in the MCU.
4 Clint Barton
Clint Barton, aka Hawkeye, is one of the original Avengers and a skilled archer. In the MCU, he is a devoted father to his three children. Despite his valued abilities and great skills as a superhero, he decides to let go of that life in order to spend more time with his family.
He is a supportive and loving father who values family above all else. His close relationship with his daughter, Lila, is particularly heartwarming and is highlighted in Avengers: Endgame when he trains her in archery. Clint's unwavering love for his family makes him a great parent in the MCU.
3 Tony Stark & Pepper Potts
Tony Stark and Pepper Potts may not be the most traditional of parents, but they have proven themselves to be incredibly loving and effective. While Tony struggled with his own demons, he ultimately turned out to be a great mentor and father figure to Peter Parker, offering him guidance, support, and tech that would benefit him.
Additionally, in Iron Man 3, Tony formed a bond with Harley Keener, a young boy who helped him in his time of need, showing a softer and more nurturing side of himself. Pepper has always been a calming and grounding presence for Tony, providing him with stability. Tony and Pepper may not have had the easiest path to parenthood, but their daughter, Morgan Stark, had some of the most capable and selfless parents in the MCU.
2 King T’Chaka & Queen Ramonda
King T’Chaka and Queen Ramonda, the parents of T'Challa and Shuri, were strong and loving parents, despite the political and social demands of being the leaders of Wakanda. They managed to raise their children with love and compassion, teaching them important lessons about leadership, humility, and strength. They instilled a strong sense of duty in T'Challa and supported Shuri in exploring her inventive side.
Their parenting skills are exemplified in the way T'Challa turned out as a leader, a warrior, and a compassionate human being. Even after the tragic deaths of T’Chaka and T'Challa, Ramonda continued to be a pillar, proving herself to be a strong and loving mother figure, while also guiding her daughter toward the future.
1 Frigga
Frigga, the wife of Odin and the mother of Thor and Loki is shown to be a kind and loving mother who cares deeply for her sons. Frigga is especially protective of Loki, despite his mischievous nature, and tries to guide him towards a better path.
Her final words to Loki serve as a reminder of her love for her children and her belief in their potential for greatness. When Thor tries to warn her of her death in Endgame, she comforts him and even tries to advise him to get in better shape. While her time on screen as a parent is limited, Frigga's nurturing and selfless nature make her a memorable character and a good example of a loving parent in the MCU.