Ironheart Faces Mixed Fan Backlash, Gains 86% Rotten Tomatoes Score

Marvel's new Disney+ series Ironheart, featuring Dominique Thorne as Riri Williams, has experienced a mixed reception since its June 24, 2025 release. While critics have generally praised the show, with Rotten Tomatoes giving it a certified fresh score of 86% and 72% for the first three episodes, fan response has been notably divided, with a significant portion of negative reviews flooding platforms even before the series premiered. This early review bombing reflects a broader pattern of backlash against Marvel and Disney projects featuring diverse leads and inclusive storytelling, as seen previously with characters like Ms. Marvel and Halle Bailey's Ariel in The Little Mermaid. Cast members like Anthony Ramos, who plays The Hood, have acknowledged the negativity but remain proud of their work, emphasizing the importance of representation despite the criticism. The series, set in Chicago and continuing from Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, combines technology and magic, spotlighting a Black female protagonist and notable cultural representation, which has sparked both support and controversy among fans. Overall, Ironheart illustrates ongoing challenges in fan culture regarding diversity and inclusion in major franchise storytelling.