5 Hidden Marvel Cameos You Totally Missed in Loki!
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
The Loki series on Disney+ has garnered widespread attention, thanks to its intricate plot, time-bending narrative, and the stellar performances of Tom Hiddleston as Loki, Sophia Di Martino as Sylvie, and Owen Wilson as Mobius M. Mobius. However, like many expansive Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) projects, the show features a wide array of supporting and guest actors who, despite their memorable roles, may have slipped under the radar for many viewers. Here, we spotlight five actors whose appearances in the series might be easily forgotten, even though their contributions were key to the development of the story.
1. Richard E. Grant as Classic Loki
Richard E. Grant, a seasoned actor known for roles in Withnail and I and Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, made a memorable appearance in Loki as Classic Loki. His character, a variant of the God of Mischief, lives in the Void and creates a massive illusion to protect other Loki variants from Alioth. While his performance is pivotal in the Void storyline, it’s easy for viewers to overlook the actor given the crowded scene of Loki variants.
Despite his brief screen time, Grant’s portrayal of the older, disillusioned Loki is crucial to the character’s emotional journey, but it often fades in the shadow of Tom Hiddleston’s more prominent role as the main Loki. His performance, while impressive, might not be remembered by casual viewers who are focused on the main plot and Hiddleston’s character.
2. Jack Veal as Kid Loki
Jack Veal’s portrayal of Kid Loki in Loki Season 1, Episode 5, also stands out as part of the ensemble of Loki variants. As the youngest of the variants, Kid Loki plays a key role in adding chaos and depth to the multiversal conflict. However, at just 14 years old during filming, Veal was still an emerging actor, with notable roles in The End of the F**ing World* and Call the Midwife. His role, while memorable in the context of the other Loki variants, is brief, with limited dialogue and focus, which might make his performance less memorable to adult viewers.
Veal’s young age and the relatively small amount of screen time given to Kid Loki make him an easy character to forget amidst the more substantial performances by adult actors in the show. However, his presence is essential for the dynamic interactions between the Lokis in the Void.
3. DeObia Oparei as Boastful Loki
In the same pivotal episode, Loki introduced Boastful Loki, played by DeObia Oparei. Boastful Loki claims to have single-handedly defeated the Avengers, a wildly exaggerated boast that leads to a confrontational scene in the Void. While Oparei has an impressive acting resume, including roles in Game of Thrones and The Revenant, his appearance in Loki is a comedic one, serving as a lighthearted addition to the Loki variants.
Despite his entertaining performance, Boastful Loki is part of a crowded ensemble of characters, making it difficult for casual viewers to remember the actor. His role, while comedic, is overshadowed by the more significant actions of other variants and the central plot revolving around Hiddleston’s Loki.
4. Chris Hemsworth as Frog Thor (Voice)
Chris Hemsworth’s cameo in Loki might have gone unnoticed by many casual viewers. In a brief but amusing appearance, Hemsworth voices Frog Thor (Throg), a variant of Thor seen trapped in a jar in the Void. This cameo, which lasts only seconds, serves as a playful Easter egg for MCU fans, referencing the Thor character from Thor #365 in the comics.
Though Hemsworth is one of the most recognizable actors in the MCU, his role in Loki is purely voice-based and easily overlooked. The brevity of the cameo, coupled with its comedic nature, makes it a quick moment that might slip from memory, especially for viewers not looking for deeper MCU connections.
5. David O’Hara as Lamentian Bartender
In Loki Season 1, Episode 3, “Lamentis,” David O’Hara played the Lamentian Bartender on the doomed planet Lamentis-1. His brief yet emotional interaction with Loki and Sylvie during their escape attempt highlights the planet’s despair and the impact of their actions. Despite the emotional weight of the scene, O’Hara’s role is relatively small and easily forgotten, particularly as the focus is on the lead characters’ dynamic and the high stakes of their escape.
O’Hara, known for his roles in The Departed, The Tudors, and The Northman, brings depth to a small but significant role. However, given the episode’s action-oriented focus, his character may not stand out as much to viewers, especially considering the larger narrative and more central characters.
Conclusion: A Rich Cast, Easily Overlooked
While Loki’s main cast, particularly Tom Hiddleston and Sophia Di Martino, receives most of the attention, the series is filled with supporting and guest actors who play key roles in its success. From Richard E. Grant’s portrayal of Classic Loki to the brief but impactful appearances of Jack Veal, DeObia Oparei, Chris Hemsworth, and David O’Hara, these actors contribute to the show’s depth and its exploration of variants and multiversal chaos.
However, with a cast so large and a narrative that shifts focus frequently, it’s easy for these performances to be overshadowed by the central characters. For many viewers, these smaller roles may fade from memory, even if they were essential to the overall story. As Loki continues to resonate with audiences, these forgotten performances are a reminder of the show’s rich and diverse ensemble, each adding a unique piece to the puzzle of the multiverse.