Chukwudi Iwuji, famous for his role of Clemson Murn in Peacemaker, has been cast as High Evolutionary in the Marvel Cinematic Universe film, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.

While James Gunn talked about the characters and the Guardians’ journey with cast members Chris Pratt, Karen Gillan, and Will Poulter, Iwuji made a surprise appearance at SDCC, coming on stage through the audience, wearing a complete outfit resembling the character.

James Gunn, who had earlier teased Iwuji's role in the film, played on the surprise reveal in the Hall H presentation at the convention, shockingly announcing the arrival of High Evolutionary. While Iwuji took the Hall in awe, eerie lamenting music played in the background as the actor walked towards the stage, seemingly confirming the character’s horrifying villainous intentions.

Getting entirely in character, Iwuji snatched the mic from James Gunn to introduce himself to the crowd. And then began his fantastic monologue to the audience, which probably Gunn and Feige were also unaware of. Not that it was bad; it was highly exhilarating and an extraordinary glimpse into what we could expect from him and his appearance in the movie. Iwuji said,

I’m pleased..to be here. As I gaze out to this crowd, I am reminded of my sole purpose..in this universe. To take unevolved, disgusting, low-life scum - such as yourselves, and enhance you genetically to something less reprehensible. Thank you for inspiring me. The bile at the back of my throat as I look at you, is all the motivation I need to move forward and create the perfect species.

At the same time, James Gunn moved forward to take the mic back from him. Before silently walking off the stage, without breaking the character, Iwuji shouted,

I CAN’T WAIT TO DISSECT ALL OF YOU! AND SEE WHAT I CAN LEARN

James Gunn, in awe, acknowledged the terrifically mean and obnoxious introduction Iwuji put up for the people at Hall H, effectively bringing the wrath of High Evolutionary to the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Who is High Evolutionary?

Chukwudi-Iwuji-Peacemaker
Warner Bros. Television

During his time as an Oxford student, Herbert Edgar Wyndham closely studied the work of Nathaniel Essex (Mister Sinister) and became obsessed with genetic manipulation. The antagonist is hell-bent on perfecting human biology and wants to modify every life form into a perfect species. In the comics, the character has ties to Adam Warlock and Avengers and storylines featuring Mount Wundagore and Darkhold. Given the vast cast in GOTG Vol. 3 and the film’s focus on Adam Warlock, Iwuji might not be in the movie for a more prominent role, but the High Evolutionary is in the MCU. The character also has ties to Thor and made his first appearance in a Mighty Thor comic book. Stan Lee and Jack Kirby created him.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 would be the last of the ventures of these space heroes. Earlier, Gunn clarified that he would be retiring from the franchise after completing his trilogy. At SDCC again, he said that the film is the final arc he began with the first film. But that probably won’t mean these characters won’t appear in the MCU again.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 will release on May 5, 2023.