The Marvel Cinematic Universe has introduced a wave of iconic artificial intelligence characters, from Ultron, played by James Spader (The Blacklist, Stargate), to J.A.R.V.I.S, who later becomes The Vision, portrayed by Paul Bettany (WandaVision, Legion). According to Screenrant, the recent addition to the franchise, Ironheart, offers fresh perspective on AI by featuring N.A.T.A.L.I.E, played by Lyric Ross (Wendell & Wild, The Class). N.A.T.A.L.I.E was designed based on Riri’s, portrayed by Dominque Throne (Freaky Tales, Marvel Zombies) late childhood friend.
According to Screenrant, throughout the series, NATALIE tried to be the voice of reason towards Riri, by encouraging to make the right choice. In a recent interview Lyric goes on to explain what makes her character different,”I think it’s the fact that she simply feels real. It’s a lot of things that you can relate with her with. Even the back and forth between Riri and Natalie and the way that they handle each other. Those are real situations when it comes to very strong and personal relationships. It was a lot of things that she gave to their dynamic that was really actions of love that any regular person can give to another.”
She further explains,”I think just the core of that and being honest, I think that was a huge thing. The way that she took on challenges, to me, was very similar to the way Riri took on challenges. They were kind of one in the same, but at the same time, very different.It’s a lot of different moving parts that I feel like people can relate to.” According to Screenrant, the actress’s words seem to indicate that the main factor that separates her character was due to her personal origin, while also pushing the boundaries of what an AI can be in the future of the MCU.
All episode of Ironheart are available to stream on Disney+.