Daredevil is back on screens with the highly anticipated release of Daredevil: Born Again, which has made its debut on Disney+ as of March 4, 2025. Among the significant additions to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is Hector Ayala, portrayed by the late Kamar de los Reyes, marking the introduction of White Tiger, Marvel's first Latino superhero, to the franchise. White Tiger’s arrival adds depth to the show's exploration of street-level heroes, connecting to the complex folklore surrounding them.
Kamar de los Reyes, who portrayed Hector Ayala/White Tiger, was celebrated for his dedication to the role. Unfortunately, he passed away at 56 on December 24, 2023, shortly after being diagnosed with cancer. To honor his legacy, the second episode of Daredevil: Born Again opens with a special dedication to him, showcasing the respect and admiration the cast and crew held for the gifted actor.
White Tiger made his first appearance during the show's two-episode premiere, quickly captivating audiences. Viewers first see Hector Ayala on surveillance footage, actively fighting off criminals as White Tiger. His role soon evolves as he becomes embroiled in legal troubles, facing accusations of killing a New York City police officer on New Year’s Eve. The arrest stems from Hector stepping in during what he believed was a mugging, only for the situation to spiral out of control when the attackers turn out to be off-duty police.
Acclaimed actor Charlie Cox, who reprises his role as blind lawyer Matt Murdock, takes on the challenge of defending Hector, leading to gripping courtroom drama. "Such a beautiful job he did with [the character]," Cox praised Kamar de los Reyes during cast interviews reported by Blavity's Trey Mangum. He reflected on the iconic storyline, noting, "The Trial of the White Tiger is [one of] Daredevil's literary masterpieces. I’ve always loved seeing Matt Murdock navigate the courtroom setting, and it’s thrilling to bring this story to life. "
Hector’s backstory reveals complex layers, dating back to 1975 when he first appeared as White Tiger, created by Bill Mantlo and George Pérez. Hector, originally from San Juan, Puerto Rico, is discovered by Matt Murdock as he balances his own superhero persona with his legal profession. This intersection of identities creates rich narrative tension, bringing depth to Murdock's character as well.
The powers granted to Hector Ayala stem from three mystical amulets formerly possessed by the Sons of the Tiger, which he stumbles upon during his college days at Empire State University. Wearing the amulets enhances his strength, stamina, agility, and martial arts mastery, making Hector Ayala not just another character, but the embodiment of the struggles faced by heroes operating at the margins of society.
Cox elaborated on how this duality impacts his character, stating, "It’s not just Hector who is on trial; it's also Matt's morality and identity. By defending Hector, Matt confronts his own vigilantism and the choices he’s made. He finds himself questioning what justice means, complicity, and whether his defense of Hector is more than just professional folly. "
But what underpins Hector’s predicament is a vibrant comic history rooted deeply within the Marvel Universe. Ayala’s character, who first appeared in Deadly Hands of Kung Fu #19, has undergone several transformations throughout the years, often facing dual challenges of proving his valor and battling racism and misunderstanding.
Executive producer Sana Amanat expressed her excitement about the character’s introduction, stating, "Kamar de los Reyes, who we lost unfortunately, was just an incredible force. We hope audiences will cherish his performance. It's important for Marvel to not only honor our characters but the actors who've breathed life to them on-screen."
The first two episodes also hint at the potential for significant developments for Ayala as the series beyond just his trial. Given the amulet's connection to K’un Lun, there are expectations for crossovers with other heroes, such as Iron Fist, raising tantalizing possibilities about future arcs.
Marvel's foray back to defining characters like White Tiger reflects not just nostalgia but also the potential to explore fresh storytelling avenues. The series may evoke various subplots including elements of the MCU's lore which could connect denied heroes like Iron Fist, creating bridges between legacies.
Looking to the future, the groundwork laid by Daredevil: Born Again could see White Tiger's character evolve beyond Hector Ayala, potentially leading to the emergence of successors like Ava Ayala or Angela del Toro, both of whom have donned the White Tiger identity within the comics. This opens up additional character trajectories and avenues for expanded story arcs.
Kamar de los Reyes’ embodiment of Hector Ayala will resonate well beyond the series, affording viewers both gripping heroics and poignant narratives wrapped up within this street-level saga, moving forward within the MCU. With fresh episodes released weekly, audiences will surely find excitement as the series unravels its dynamic tales.
This legacy brought to life by Kamar de los Reyes serves not only as entertainment but as shared representation within superhero universes, allowing Marvel to properly reflect the diverse and rich stories of its fandom.
New episodes of Daredevil: Born Again premiere every Tuesday on Disney+, as the Marvel Cinematic Universe continues to expand its legacy through the lens of characters like White Tiger and their impactful stories.