Rick Riordan’s Take on Loki: Marvel’s Norse Myths Under the Microscope
Rick Riordan, famed for Percy Jackson, weighs in on Marvel’s Loki and Norse mythology, sharing why his own version stays true to the original legends. Find out what sets his approach apart.
Fans of the Percy Jackson films will know Rick Riordan as the bloke behind the much-loved Greek adventures, but he’s also had a crack at Norse mythology. Riordan, who’s made a name for himself with his tales of ancient gods and heroes, once shared his thoughts on Marvel’s interpretation of Loki, one of the most complex figures in their cinematic universe. Back in 2015, he spoke about this with The Guardian, offering a candid take on how Marvel handles Norse legends.
Riordan’s Approach to Norse Myths
Riordan grew up reading Thor comics and admits he enjoys the Marvel films, but he’s not shy about pointing out their creative liberties.
I grew up on Thor comics and I like the Marvel movies, but they play fast and loose with the Norse myths. I wanted my version to be closer to the original. Loki is a great character in the old Viking stories.
In his then-new novel, Riordan aimed to bring Loki to life as he appears in the old tales:
the same way he acts in the myths: clever, funny, capricious, silver-tongued and quick to anger.
His book, Magnus Chase and the Sword of Summer, was his way of giving readers a taste of the original Norse stories, rather than the Hollywood version.
Percy Jackson Returns to Disney+
Riordan’s works have been adapted into films featuring the likes of Logan Lerman and Alexandra Daddario, but the Percy Jackson stories have recently found a new home as a series on Disney+. The first season aired in December 2023, bringing a fresh wave of nostalgia for fans. The second season is set to drop its first two episodes on 10 December, with new episodes rolling out each Wednesday until late January 2026. The episode titles promise more of the same adventurous spirit, from dodgeball with cannibals to magical mishaps with the Golden Fleece.
Loki’s Journey in the Marvel Universe
Loki’s character has always been a mix of mischief and tragedy. Audiences have laughed at his antics, felt for him in his lowest moments, and even shed a tear or two. The Loki who met his end in Avengers: Infinity War died a hero, but the version we see in the Disney+ series is a different one—he slipped away after the Battle of New York in Avengers: Endgame, creating a new timeline altogether. This twist means Thor, who mourned his brother’s death, hasn’t witnessed the full extent of Loki’s later deeds.
There’s good news for those keen to see more of the god of mischief. Avengers: Doomsday is set to reunite Loki with Thor, the new Captain America, and the rest of the team. The film is scheduled for release on 18 December 2026, and fans are already buzzing about what’s in store for these iconic characters.
Percy Jackson and the Olympians season 2 is now streaming on Disney+.