Hawkeye (2021) – Plot Summary
Hawkeye is a six-episode Marvel Studios series released on Disney+ in late 2021. Set during the holiday season in New York City, the show follows former Avenger Clint Barton (Jeremy Renner) as he deals with his past, mentors a new hero, and tries to make it home for Christmas.
A New Archer in Town
The story introduces Kate Bishop (Hailee Steinfeld), a 22-year-old skilled archer and longtime admirer of Hawkeye. After witnessing his heroics during the Battle of New York as a child, Kate trains in martial arts, fencing, and archery, dreaming of becoming a hero herself.
Her life changes when she discovers Clint’s old Ronin suit—his vigilante identity from Avengers: Endgame—during a charity gala break-in. Kate wears the suit to fight off some thugs, which draws the attention of several dangerous enemies from Clint’s past.
Clint’s Past Comes Back
Clint, trying to enjoy a quiet Christmas with his family, is pulled back into action when he sees news footage of “Ronin” back in the spotlight. He tracks Kate down and reluctantly teams up with her to clean up the mess, protect her, and recover the suit.
They face threats from the Tracksuit Mafia, a group tied to Clint’s violent Ronin days. At the center of it all is Maya Lopez (Echo), a deaf martial artist who leads the gang and is seeking revenge for the death of her father—killed by Ronin.
Holiday Hijinks and High-Stakes Action
The show blends action, comedy, and heartfelt moments as Clint and Kate form an unexpected partnership. While Clint deals with his guilt, hearing loss, and lingering trauma, Kate brings fresh energy and enthusiasm to the world of heroism.
Together, they uncover a conspiracy involving Kate’s mother Eleanor Bishop (Vera Farmiga), who is working with the mysterious Kingpin—none other than Wilson Fisk (Vincent D’Onofrio, reprising his role from Daredevil). Kingpin has been pulling strings behind the scenes and has ties to both Maya and Eleanor.
A Widow Returns
The stakes rise when Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh), the sister of Natasha Romanoff (Black Widow), arrives in New York. Believing Clint is responsible for Natasha’s death, she’s on a mission to kill him. A dramatic rooftop fight and a heartfelt confrontation between Clint and Yelena provide some of the show’s most emotional moments.
The Final Showdown
The finale takes place on Christmas Eve in Rockefeller Center, where Clint and Kate face off against the Tracksuit Mafia, Eleanor, and Kingpin. Kate proves herself as a true hero, defeating Kingpin in a tense battle. Clint makes peace with his past and brings Kate home for Christmas, hinting at her future as his protégé.