In August we learned from sources that Avengers 4 was undergoing extensive reshoots This news followed the indefinite postponement of Guardians of the Galaxy: Volume 3 and of course the confirmation of Fox accepting the sale to Disney.

Out of these to stories though came two different rumors, the first and most predictable revolved around introducing mutants. While this is a very cool idea it is highly unlikely at this moment to be anything more than wishful thinking.

The second more probable scenario is the potential inclusion of comic favorite Richard Rider aka Nova.

The rumors have circulated since the first GOTG movie that Rider would be incorporated into the franchise after a large portion of the movie focused on Xandar- the base planet of the Nova Corps- way back in 2014. Gunn and Feige have stated previously that Nova was a character they would like to include when the time was right.

Is now the right time following Gunn’s dismissal?

Absolutely. It looks like they already set-up his debut in Avengers: Infinity War when Thor dropped this little breadcrumb about Thanos, “he’s already laid waste to Xandar.” Speculation has been rife that this may lead to Rider being the last surviving Nova and the sole wielder of the Nova Force.

Another reason his inclusion could make sense now is the GOTG franchise may have little future in its current form. This may lead to an iconic moment in defeating Thanos where Quill and Rider lock themselves into an alternate reality with the mad Titan. The only difference from the comic would be Rider escaping a likely outcome.

Another notable reason for Nova being introduced now is the buyout. With Rider having his most iconic moments linked to comics such as Annihilation, the MCU now has rights to the main players in the story.

He could be the cosmic Captain America for the next generation of the MCU.

Also, while never officially being a Guardian his link to the group is ingrained in their history– in particular to characters such as Phyla and Adam Warlock. This link would be very easy to achieve as we know Warlock exists from the post-credit scene of GOTG Volume 2. This connection provides a prime opportunity to introduce yet another cosmic powerhouse.

Whether Nova is the huge secret inclusion in the movie or not, he’s definitely got the cult status and clout to be a big hit in the MCU.

Hopefully, between now and April 19, we get to find out more concrete details.