Krysten Ritter has made a bold return to NYC as Jessica Jones, shaking things up in the MCU. Recent leaked images from Daredevil: Born Again capture Ritter in her classic attire—leather jacket, jeans, and a signature scowl—while Charlie Cox as Daredevil stands nearby in a sleek black suit. This isn’t merely a nostalgic reunion; it’s a direct challenge to the lighthearted nature of the Avengers.

Marvel has been tight-lipped about plot specifics, yet Ritter’s return clearly signifies one thing: The gritty, streetwise chaos of The Defenders is making its way into the MCU. The images hint at Jones and Murdock collaborating against Vincent D’Onofrio’s Mayor Fisk, echoing the compelling dynamic of The Defenders (her dark humor against his moral dilemmas). However, the twist is that Born Again goes beyond just fanfare. It’s a test for Disney+: can the MCU accommodate a hero who prefers whiskey over witty banter?

Ritter’s statement—”There’s much more in store for Jessica”—suggests she has unfinished narratives. Don’t forget, Jones wrapped up her Netflix storyline by stepping away from the PI world, but with Fisk’s crackdown on vigilantes, she may find herself back in the fight. And let’s address the pressing question: Where’s Luke Cage? With Mike Colter reportedly in New York, Marvel could either be teasing us or laying the groundwork for a renewed Defenders saga—one intense confrontation at a time.

Is it brilliance or a sign of desperation? The MCU certainly craves a darker tone, although Jones’ R-rated background might face some dilution under Disney’s influence. Regardless, Ritter has returned, and if the leaked set images are anything to go by, she’s still the type to throw a punch instead of cracking a joke.