Exploring the Complex Character of Will Simpson

From Military Veteran to Vigilante
Will Simpson’s journey as a character in the Marvel Cinematic Universe is a complex one. Initially introduced in Jessica Jones as a police officer and love interest for the titular character, Will’s past as a military veteran soon became apparent. This backstory was further explored in the second season of the show, where it was revealed that Will had been part of an experimental program called “Combat Enhancements” that had left him with enhanced strength and agility.
After being manipulated by Kilgrave, the main villain of the first season, and suffering from addiction to the “Combat Enhancements” drugs, Will’s character took a dark turn in season two. He became obsessed with taking down Kilgrave and other criminals, often resorting to violence and vigilantism.
Despite his questionable actions, Will remained a sympathetic character due to his struggles with addiction and the trauma of his military past. However, his actions ultimately led to his downfall, and he was last seen in Jessica Jones being taken away by the authorities.
Overall, Will Simpson’s character arc is a fascinating exploration of the consequences of trauma, addiction, and the desire for justice. His journey from military veteran to vigilante is a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of seeking help and support when dealing with mental health issues.
The Dark Side of Nuke: Addiction and Control
Will Simpson’s character in Jessica Jones is based on the Marvel Comics character, Nuke. In the comics, Nuke is a genetically modified soldier who becomes addicted to a drug that enhances his physical abilities. This addiction and the resulting loss of control over his actions lead to disastrous consequences.
Similarly, Will’s addiction to the “Combat Enhancements” drugs in Jessica Jones is a major plot point that drives his character’s actions. He becomes increasingly erratic and violent, even turning on those who were once close to him. This mirrors the storyline of Nuke in the comics and highlights the dangers of addiction and the loss of control it can bring.
The character of Nuke was also used in the Marvel Comics event, “Born Again,” where he is hired by Wilson Fisk (aka the Kingpin) to take down Daredevil. This storyline was adapted in the third season of Daredevil, where a version of Nuke is used as a pawn by Fisk in his war against Matt Murdock.
Overall, the character of Nuke/Will Simpson is a cautionary tale about the dangers of addiction and the need for control. The use of drugs and enhancements can provide temporary benefits, but they can also have lasting negative effects that can be difficult to overcome. The character serves as a reminder that seeking help and support is crucial in dealing with addiction and mental health issues.
Love and Redemption: Will’s Relationship with Jessica Jones
One of the defining aspects of Will Simpson’s character in Jessica Jones is his relationship with the titular character. Initially introduced as a police officer tasked with protecting Jessica, the two develop a romantic connection that is complicated by their pasts and their current circumstances.
Will’s character arc in season two sees him become obsessed with taking down Kilgrave, leading him to make questionable choices that put him at odds with Jessica. However, in the end, it is his love for her that ultimately drives him to sacrifice himself to save her life.
Despite the rocky nature of their relationship, the bond between Jessica and Will is a key aspect of both characters’ development. Will’s character provides a different perspective on the themes of trauma and addiction explored in the show, highlighting the different ways people cope with difficult experiences.
Furthermore, the sacrifice Will makes in the end shows a path to redemption for a character that had been heading down a dark path. His love for Jessica is ultimately what redeems him, highlighting the importance of human connection and relationships in the face of adversity.
Overall, the relationship between Will and Jessica is a nuanced and complex one that adds depth to both characters’ arcs. It serves as a reminder that love and connection can be powerful forces for redemption and change.
Simpson’s Role in the Defenders’ Universe
Will Simpson’s character appears in Jessica Jones and also has a role in the larger Defenders’ universe. In addition to his appearance in Jessica Jones, he also appears in The Defenders and Daredevil.
In The Defenders, Will is briefly seen in a hospital recovering from the events of Jessica Jones season two. He is then recruited by Misty Knight to help take down the Hand, an ancient organization of assassins. While he is not a major player in the show, his appearance provides a link to the wider Marvel universe and adds continuity to the overall narrative.
In Daredevil, a version of the character Nuke (on which Will Simpson is based) is used as a pawn by Wilson Fisk in his war against Matt Murdock. This version of the character is a bit different from the one seen in Jessica Jones, but the connection to Will Simpson is clear.
Overall, Will Simpson’s role in the Defenders’ universe is a minor one, but it adds depth and continuity to the overall narrative. His appearance in The Defenders serves as a reminder that the characters in this universe are all connected and have an impact on each other’s stories.
What Lies Ahead for Will Simpson?
While Will Simpson’s character arc in Jessica Jones seems to have come to a close, there are still questions about what lies ahead for the character.
One possibility is that he could appear in future Marvel properties, either in the Defenders’ universe or in the wider Marvel Cinematic Universe. As a character with ties to the military and enhanced abilities, there are several avenues that could be explored in future stories.
Another possibility is that the character could be adapted for other media. As mentioned earlier, the character of Nuke has appeared in the comics and was adapted for the third season of Daredevil. It’s possible that a version of the character could appear in other Marvel media, such as video games or animated shows.
Of course, it’s also possible that the character may not appear again in any form. While his arc in Jessica Jones was a compelling one, there may not be a need to revisit the character in future stories.
Overall, the future of Will Simpson is uncertain, but the character’s impact on the Defenders’ universe and the themes explored in Jessica Jones will continue to be felt.