Unraveling the Mystery: Why Mal’s Father in ‘Disney Descendants’ Became Hades

Have you ever been confused by the unexpected connection in the Disney Descendants series, especially concerning Mal’s father? If you were as surprised as we were to find out that Mal’s father is none other than Hades from Hercules, you're not alone. But why didn't this detail appear in the very first movie, and how did it come to be? Let’s delve into this intriguing revelation and explore the reasoning behind this important plot twist.

The Initial Veil of Mystery

In the original Disney Descendants movie, Mal, the daughter of Maleficent, is the central character. There is a notable absence of any mention of a father figure, leaving audiences in the dark about Mal's lineage. This decision allows for character development and focuses on establishing Mal's identity as a villainess in her own right. However, the mystery surrounding her father is a crucial element that adds depth to her story.

Character Development and Plot Expansion

In Descendants 3, the veil is lifted, revealing that Mal’s father is indeed Hades, the god of the Underworld from the Hercules franchise. This revelation introduces new dynamics and conflicts, enriching the narrative and tying into Disney’s extensive mythological lore. The addition of Hades adds complexity to Mal’s character, exploring her relationship with her father and how it impacts her choices and struggles with her heritage.

Hints and Subtle References

While Mal's father being Hades might seem sudden and out of the blue, there are subtle hints to suggest this connection in earlier parts of the series. For instance, during the song “Evil Like Me” in the first movie, the blue fire surrounding Mal and Maleficent could be a reference to Hades' characteristic blue flames. Additionally, in the second movie during the song “It’s Goin’ Down,” Mal hitting the ground twice, which in Greek mythology is said to summon Hades, can be seen as a foreshadowing of the eventual revelation.

The Details in Literature and Cartoons

Further evidence of Mal's father being Hades can be found in the books. According to one of the novels, Mal had a human father that Maleficent didn't acknowledge because he was deemed worthless. This detail was likely altered for the film, possibly due to Hades' popularity as a villain and his appearance in House of Mouse where he attempted to flirt with Maleficent. This connection creates a richer storyline and ties into Disney's broader universe.

While the change has caused some backlash among fans, it serves to enhance the overall narrative and character development. The film Descendants 3 remains true to the series' exploration of family and identity, albeit with a twist that fans of the Hercules franchise will find familiar and intriguing.

So, while Mal's father being Hades may seem confusing initially, it serves a vital purpose in enriching the story and providing a deeper connection between the Disney Descendants and Hercules franchises.