Daredevil, the gritty and groundbreaking Netflix adaptation of the beloved Marvel character, gave viewers one of the best superhero shows ever. It has also been making headlines again for its comeback in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Following intense fan campaigns, Marvel Studios is currently developing the show that Netflix canceled in 2018. The character of Matt Murdock, aka Daredevil, already made a brief MCU appearance in Spider-Man: No Way Home and later in She-Hulk: Attorney At Law. However, fans are awaiting his proper debut in the upcoming Daredevil: Born Again project.

Following its announcement, fans were delighted to have the superhero mark a major comeback to their screens. Steven S. DeKnight, who served as the showrunner, writer, and director of Netflix Daredevil’s first season, has recently made a shocking claim. He has said that Netflix has not paid him for his work on the show since 2015.

DeKnight oversaw three episodes throughout the season, including the finale while also directing one. Additionally, he closely supervised the direction and production of the entire season, earning widespread acclaim from both critics and fans alike. He made the season stand out for its somber tone, intricately crafted characters, and awe-inspiring action sequences.

The American filmmaker has not explicitly mentioned the sum he is owed by Netflix for his role in Daredevil Season 1, but he has hinted at it being quite substantial. Additionally, he mentioned that he has not received any clarification or apology from Netflix regarding the payment. The claims have come as a shock to both fans and peers alike. The expected involvement of the character Daredevil in numerous MCU shows and movies also makes the issue significant.

These claims have come right in the nick of time as Netflix, along with Hollywood, finds itself embroiled in a massive standstill.

Impact of DeKnight’s claims on Netflix amidst WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes

DeKnight’s claims are one of his revelations along the lines of the recent Hollywood strikes. The former showrunner is a member of both the WGA and SAG-AFTRA. Moreover, he has expressed support for the union and urged his followers to join the picket lines. If true, would be one of the examples of how streaming services have been exploiting and mistreating their creators. 

The strikes partially aim to highlight the studios’ and streaming giants’ irregularity over the clearing of dues. Better compensation, residuals, and working facilities for writers are one of the demands of the guild. Increasing pressure is mounting upon the studios as the strikes have received worldwide solidarity and support. A resolution needs to be met soon as several big projects like Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning Part II are either delayed or are in the process of being. The entertainment capital of the world is currently on a momentary hold as it faces one of its biggest challenges.

What do you think of DeKnight’s claims? Let us know in the comments below.