Nebula (Marvel Cinematic Universe)

Nebula is a fictional character in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), portrayed by actress Karen Gillan. Based on the Marvel Comics character of the same name, she first appeared in Guardians of the Galaxy (2014) and has since become a prominent character in the franchise, also appearing in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017), Avengers: Infinity War (2018), Avengers: Endgame (2019), Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023), the Disney+ television series What If...? (2021-present) and the television special The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special (2022).

Fictional character biography

Nebula is the adopted daughter of Thanos, the Mad Titan, and the sister of Gamora. Thanos raised her to be a warrior, often pitting her against Gamora, which fostered a deep rivalry and complicated relationship between the sisters.

Personality

Initially portrayed as a villain, Nebula is characterized by her bitterness, anger, and desire for revenge against her father and sister. Over time, her character has evolved, showing vulnerability, a quest for redemption, and a desire to forge her own identity separate from Thanos.

Themes

Nebula’s character arc revolves around themes of redemption, identity, and the complexity of familial relationships. Her journey from villain to a more nuanced, heroic figure demonstrates the impact of trauma and the choice to pursue a different path.

Powers and abilities

Nebula possesses enhanced strength, agility, and durability, thanks to cybernetic enhancements. She is a skilled fighter, trained by Thanos in various forms of combat, and is proficient with a variety of weapons.

Reception

Nebula is a compelling character within the MCU, offering depth and emotional complexity, as well as a lens through which to explore topics of loyalty, betrayal, and the search for self-acceptance.

Appearances

Movie appearances


Year	Movie	Portrayed by
2014	Guardians of the Galaxy	Karen Gillan
2017	Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2
2018	Avengers: Infinity War
2019	Avengers: Endgame
2023	Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3

Television appearances


Year	Television series and specials	Seasons	Episodes	Portrayed by
2021-present	What If...?	2	18	Karen Gillan
2022	The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special			Karen Gillan