Marvel Studios' Director of Visual Development, Andy Park, recently showed off some concept art for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2's Mantis. This early design for the character featured a more insect-like appearance.
Mantis can be seen with a yellow skin tone and a more detailed antenna. Park shared the art to his Instagram, with the caption reading, "I did this design for Guardians of the Galaxy: Vol. 2. But like Gamora (see my last post) James Gunn (director) decided to simplify their looks. Even though I would’ve loved to see both Gamora & Mantis in these ways I think he ultimately made the right decision."
Portrayed by French actress Pom Klementieff, Mantis debuted in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 as a servant of Kurt Russell's Ego. The character would go on to make future appearances in both 2018's Avengers: Infinity War and 2019's Avengers: Endgame. Though an official cast for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 hasn't been released, Mantis is expected to return.
After Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2's release in 2017, Mantis quickly became a fan-favorite character. Director James Gunn even had the idea for a film centering around Mantis and Bautista's Drax, which may still happen.
Written and directed by James Gunn, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 will feature Star Lord and the gang on their next adventure, following the events of Avengers: Endgame. The film is set to begin production in February 2021 and does not yet have a release date.