Hailee Steinfeld Expresses Eagerness for MCU Return as Kate Bishop

Hailee Steinfeld has signaled her readiness to reprise her role as Kate Bishop in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), stating she is "always waiting by the phone" for Marvel Studios to call. This statement fuels speculation about a potential second season of the Disney+ series Hawkeye, which also stars Jeremy Renner as Clint Barton/Hawkeye.

Uncertain Future for Hawkeye Season 2

The future of Hawkeye remained uncertain following significant business decisions within Disney and Marvel Studios, coupled with Renner's serious snowplow accident in early 2023. While Renner has expressed optimism about a second season, concrete plans have yet to be announced.

Speaking on Variety's Awards Circuit Podcast, Steinfeld addressed a listing on her IMDB page crediting her for a project titled "Champions." She questioned the accuracy of the listing, acknowledging the possibility of it being either a random addition or an indication of inside knowledge. Her eagerness to return to the MCU, however, was unequivocal. "As for Marvel, I'm always waiting by the phone. I love that family. I'm so grateful to be a part of it. Anytime they need me, they know where to find me," Steinfeld stated.

Renner's Recovery and Enthusiasm

Renner's recovery from his accident has been remarkable. In an interview with Empire magazine in July 2025, he expressed his continued affection for the MCU and his character. "I'm always happy to be in that world, man. I love all those guys, I love the character," Renner said. He added, "I'm sure we'll end up doing Season 2, and do other things. And I'm happy to do it. My body's getting ready for something like that. I don't know if anybody wants to see me in tights, but my body will look good in the tights."

Renner also emphasized his readiness for the physical demands of the role, stating, "Absolutely. No problem. That's where I'm at. I'm more than 150 per cent of what I was prior to the incident." He credited his focus on health and wellness for his recovery and improved physical condition.

Historical Context: The Rise of Superhero Television

The success of Hawkeye reflects the broader trend of superhero television gaining prominence. Once relegated to animated series and low-budget live-action adaptations, superhero properties have become major players in the television landscape. Shows like Hawkeye benefit from the established cinematic universes, drawing in viewers familiar with the characters and storylines from the big screen. The integration of Kate Bishop, a relatively recent addition to the Marvel Comics canon, into the MCU showcases the studio's willingness to adapt and evolve its source material for a wider audience.

Expert Perspective: The Importance of Character Development

Dr. Emily Carter, a professor of film studies specializing in superhero narratives, believes that the success of shows like Hawkeye hinges on strong character development. "While spectacle and action are important components of superhero stories, audiences are ultimately drawn to characters they can connect with," Dr. Carter explains. "The dynamic between Clint Barton and Kate Bishop in Hawkeye resonated with viewers because it explored themes of mentorship, responsibility, and the challenges of balancing a superhero life with personal relationships. A potential second season would need to continue building on these character arcs to maintain audience engagement."

The "Champions" Connection

The mention of "Champions" on Steinfeld's IMDB page is intriguing. In Marvel Comics, the Champions are a team of teenage superheroes formed in the aftermath of the "Civil War II" event. The original team consisted of Ms. Marvel (Kamala Khan), Nova (Sam Alexander), and Spider-Man (Miles Morales). If Steinfeld were to appear in a "Champions" project, it could signal a further expansion of the MCU's younger generation of heroes.

Analyst Viewpoint: Strategic Importance of Disney+

According to industry analyst Michael Davis, the performance of Marvel shows on Disney+ is crucial for the streaming service's success. "Disney+ is heavily invested in the MCU, and shows like Hawkeye are vital for attracting and retaining subscribers," Davis notes. "A second season of Hawkeye would not only satisfy existing fans but also provide an opportunity to introduce new characters and storylines, further enriching the MCU's presence on Disney+."

As fans eagerly await news regarding the future of Hawkeye, Steinfeld's expressed enthusiasm offers a glimmer of hope for a potential second season. The decision ultimately rests with Marvel Studios, but the audience's appetite for more adventures with Kate Bishop remains strong.