When you think of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, you probably picture the Avengers saving the world or the Guardians of the Galaxy cracking jokes in space. But before the Disney+ era, Hulu quietly delivered one of the most underrated superhero series: Marvel's Runaways. Now streaming on Tubi, this three-season gem is a must-watch for anyone who loves the X-Men's mix of youthful rebellion and superpowered drama.
A Fresh Take on the Superhero Formula
Created by Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage, Runaways flips the typical superhero story on its head. Instead of saving the universe, the focus is on six Los Angeles teens who discover their parents are part of a sinister criminal syndicate called The Pride. Rather than following in their footsteps, they band together to take them down. It's a story about found family, generational trauma, and learning to trust yourself—themes that will feel very familiar to X-Men fans.
The team includes Nico Minoru (Lyrica Okano), the goth witch; Alex Wilder (Rhenzy Feliz), the strategic nerd; Chase Stein (Gregg Sulkin), the jock with a heart; Gert Yorkes (Ariela Barer), the activist; Karolina Dean (Virginia Gardner), the closeted religious girl; and Molly Hayes Hernandez (Allegra Acosta), the youngest outsider. Together, they wield powers like super strength, flight, and a telepathic link to a genetically engineered dinosaur. But their biggest battles are against real-world issues like anxiety, religious exploitation, and domestic abuse.
Diversity and Representation Done Right
Runaways stands out for its commitment to diversity. Set in Los Angeles, the cast reflects the city's multicultural reality, and the characters' arcs tackle stereotypes head-on. The show also features a groundbreaking queer romance between Karolina and Nico, with Karolina coming out as gay and Nico exploring her bisexuality. This wasn't just background noise—it was a driving force for their character growth, long before the MCU seriously addressed LGBTQ+ themes.
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How 'Runaways' Connects to the MCU
While you won't see Iron Man or Captain America drop by, Runaways is still part of the MCU. Easter eggs like Roxxon Corporation, Wakanda references, and WHIH World News broadcasts tie it to the larger universe. The show also delves into the mystical side with the Darkhold and the Staff of One, and it even crosses over with Cloak & Dagger in Season 3. For fans of interconnected storytelling, it's a rewarding watch.
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Why X-Men Fans Will Love It
Like the X-Men, Runaways celebrates outcasts who find strength in their differences. But instead of saving the world, these teens focus on personal growth, school life, and coping with their abilities. The show's emphasis on found family and fighting against a corrupt system echoes the best X-Men stories. It's a character-driven series that proves you don't need world-ending stakes to tell a compelling superhero tale.
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In the end, Runaways is a story about young people rebelling against their destiny and choosing their own path. Come for the superpowers, stay for the gripping characters and emotional depth. It's one of the MCU's best-kept secrets, and it's time more fans discovered it.
