The Agent Carter One-Shot: How the Series Began

Before Agent Carter became a television series, it was a short film. The Marvel One-Shot titled Agent Carter was released in 2013 as a bonus feature on the home release of Iron Man 3. It gave fans a taste of Peggy's postwar world and helped build interest in a full series.

What are Marvel One-Shots?

Marvel One-Shots are short films that expand the MCU between larger releases. They explore side characters and corners of the universe, and they often arrive as extras on home video collections. They are usually quick to watch and a nice way to see a different tone.

What the One-Shot shows

The short follows Peggy in the aftermath of the war as she works with the SSR. Its focus is on her skills, her determination, and the way her colleagues underestimate her. It sets up the themes that the series would later explore at greater length: grief, ambition, and the fight to be taken seriously.

How it connects to the series

The One-Shot is not required viewing, but it works as a mood-setting appetizer. Its stylish look and its emphasis on Peggy's competence match the tone of the show. If you enjoy it, the series offers many more hours of the same energy.

Where it fits in the watch order

For viewers who want a complete experience, the recommended order is:

• Captain America: The First Avenger
• The Agent Carter One-Shot
• Season 1
• Season 2

You can find a fuller breakdown in our watch order guide.

A step toward the series

The One-Shot proved there was audience interest in Peggy's story. A few years later, ABC brought her back as the lead of her own show, with Hayley Atwell returning in the role. For the story of that series, start with our beginner's guide.

Where to find it

Availability of the short changes by region and service, so check your local listings or the home release it originally accompanied.