How Guest Stars Have Brought Out the Best in 'SHIELD'

By Craig Wack | Marvel Movies | March 17, 2015 |

By Craig Wack | Marvel Movies | March 17, 2015 |

The arrival of Blair Underwood and the return of Kyle MacLachlan to Agents of SHIELD tonight is a reminder that no matter how checkered this show’s past may be, it’s done pretty well in the guest stars department in a season and a half.

The show has rarely squandered a guest appearance with each new character adding the right amount of extra charisma to give the regular cast a little boost. Here are some of the best so far:

Saffron Burrows as Victoria Hand

It’s amazing what magenta hair extensions and a steely attitude can do for you

Cobie Smulders as Maria Hill

Having Nick Fury’s right hand pop up from time to time is always a treat, especially when she gets her banter on with Agent Coulson.

Jaimie Alexander as Sif

Another character from the movie side of the Marvel Universe. It’s not easy fitting an Asgardian into SHIELD’s earthbound adventures, but her brand of butt-kicking is always welcome.

Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury

The show’s first major guest star. His return in the Season 1 finale was a lot of fun.

Patton Oswalt as the Koenig boys

Are they clones? Androids? Biological siblings? Who cares! I hope there are lanyards issued for Abe to Zeke. Oswalt is pretty much a professional guest star at this point in his career, but you can still see the glee in his eye when he plays this part.

Bill Paxton as John Garrett

It’s no coincidence that SHIELD turned a corner once Paxton’s character was introduced. Garrett gave the show that over-the-top bravado it was lacking in the first half of its run.

Kyle MacLachlan as The Doctor

Just when you were worried about all that unchewed scenery that would pile up with the demise of Agent Garrett, in walks Skye’s father with is Paul Atreides hair and boiling rage. MacLachlan has been a great addition to the show and let’s hope he hangs around a while more.

Adrianna Palicki as Mockingbird

The first guest star to graduate to full series regular status. She’s spiced up the cast dynamic with her screen presence, fight scenes and hints of betrayal - a performance deserving of her promotion.

Craig Wack is a veteran journalist. Please follow his Twitter.