Hamilton star Anthony Ramos has responded to the online backlash targeting Marvel's newest Disney+ series, Ironheart, which emerged even before the show premiered.
A follow-up to Black Panther: Wakanda Forever that centers on supporting character Riri Williams, Ironheart released its first three episodes last week. The final three episodes will be available tomorrow, July 1.
Negative user reviews criticizing Ironheart, particularly for featuring a Black woman as the protagonist, appeared online prior to the series' launch. Ramos has now shared his thoughts on the early audience reaction.
"There will always be negativity, no matter what you do," Ramos told Buzzfeed, drawing a parallel with his role in the Transformers franchise and the 2023 film Transformers: Rise of the Beasts.
"I've been part of Transformers, and people had negative things to say. With this project, it's the same... People will express their opinions, but ultimately we stand by the work we've created and take pride in it."
"While we aren't the first to take this approach, our series definitely stands out as unique," Ramos added. "When you try something different, you open yourself up to all kinds of comments."
"Everyone is entitled to their opinion, and at least they're discussing the show. If they weren't talking about it, that would be more concerning."
Exploring Marvel's Ironheart
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Set in Chicago, Ironheart follows Williams as she constructs a magic-enhanced suit of armor reminiscent of Iron Man, aided by Ramos' character, a gang leader called The Hood.
The cast recently received support from MCU veteran Robert Downey Jr., who shared a video message expressing his delight at seeing Dominique Thorne take on the lead role. "To put it simply, Iron Man loves Ironheart," Downey Jr. stated in his endorsement.
Critics have given Ironheart a mixed reception, while Marvel has consistently hinted at the introduction of a major comic book villain in the final episodes, urging viewers to catch the concluding installment this week.
