Finn Jones

Long before Game of Thrones star Finn Jones won the role of Marvel’s Netflix Iron Fist, controversy over the character’s race produced a number of suggestions to feature Asian Marvel hero Shang-Chi instead. Now, it appears Shang-Chi will indeed appear in the upcoming Defenders series, for which Marvel will exclusively audition Asian actors.

Marvel has yet to officially confirm recent reports that Game of Thrones star Finn Jones has landed the title role of Netflix’s Iron Fist, but there may yet be a reason behind the announcement’s timing. According to a new report, Jones’ Daniel Rand will make a first appearance in the upcoming Luke Cage series, our first taste of Marvel’s “Heroes for Hire.”

Of all Marvel’s Netflix Defenders, Iron Fist has proved the most opaque after Daredevil, Jessica Jones and Luke Cage, mired in casting controversy and seemingly delayed in production. Now, our live-action Daniel Rand has finally been cast, as Iron Fist sets Game of Thrones alum Finn Jones for the final Defender role, starting production in the near future.