Michael Rooker's Yondu was one of Guardians of the Galaxy's highlights back in 2014. As the leader of the Ravagers, he proved to not only be an effective leader, but also funny at certain points. Three years after parting amicably with his former protege, Peter Quill, Yondu is returning to the big screen next year in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, and we have our first look at the space pirate thanks to a painting.
Cinema Blend's own Eric Eisenberg snapped this picture of Yondu's portrait being displayed at San Diego Comic-Con. Marvel has since disclosed that the painting will be seen inside Yondu's ship, the Eclector, during Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2. Costume-wise, his look is basically the same as from the first movie, but his pose has a regal feel. Presumably he keeps that portrait up in the ship to remind the other Ravagers that he's boss, and if they still try to mutiny, he can always pull out that whistle-controlled arrow to get rid of them. I wonder if he paid the artist for that portrait or threatened their life to get the job done. Yondu can be occasionally charming, but don't forget that he's a rogue at his core.
The Marvel Cinematic Universe's version of Yondu kidnapped Peter Quill shortly after his mother died, but even though he was supposed to deliver the boy to his mysterious father, he instead opted to raise him as a member of the Ravagers, a notorious band of mercenaries. Yondu grew fond of Peter over the next 26 years (even if he didn't show it), but when Peter stole the Orb, a.k.a. the Power Stone, for himself despite the Ravagers being hired to get it, Yondu was determined to get that artifact back. When we last saw him, he was surprisingly amused by how Peter had switched out the Orb with a Troll doll in their exchange after Ronan was defeated. So at least there's not that many hard feelings.
Yondu will officially join Star-Lord's band of miscreants in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, as will Nebula and Mantis. However, we still don't know how this new alliance will be formed. Yondu obviously still looks as Peter with some affection, but it would have to take an especially huge threat to get them working together again. Let's see if Yondu has what it takes to be an intergalactic defender among these folks, making for a nice break from pillaging various ships and worlds with his minions.
You can see Yondu in action again when Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 will be released in theaters on May 5, 2017.
