2 MCU Stars Didn’t Appear in Thunderbolts* Even Though They Would’ve Been Perfect

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Although Marvel Studios’ Thunderbolts* didn’t meet box office expectations in its May 2, 2025 release, it garnered considerable acclaim. However, the film left two underdeveloped Marvel Cinematic Universe characters out of the action-packed adventure. As the concluding film in Phase 5 and a Phase-ending spectacle similar to The Avengers, Thunderbolts brought together reformed villains and antiheroes as the first Thunderbolts team. In a surprising turn of events, it was revealed that the Thunderbolts were actually the New Avengers; unfortunately, two ideal characters missed out on this character development.

The thunderous comeback of characters like Yelena Belova (played by Florence Pugh), Bucky Barnes’ Winter Soldier (Sebastian Stan), Alexei Shostakov’s Red Guardian (David Harbour), Ava Starr’s Ghost (Hannah John-Kamen), and John Walker’s US Agent (Wyatt Russell) was signaled. These individuals, assembled by Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus), were initially targeted for elimination to eliminate proof of her actions. However, they unexpectedly joined forces to subdue one of Valentina’s rogue projects, Robert Reynolds’ Sentry (Lewis Pullman), whose Void, a terrifying manifestation, wreaked havoc across New York City.

Following their victory over the Void and Robert Reynolds’ resurrection, the group was unveiled globally as the New Avengers – a title they continue to bear 14 months later, hinted in the post-credits scene of Thunderbolts. This marked their transition from villains or antiheroes, as seen in their past MCU endeavors. However, this transformation wasn’t just limited to the team members; some key supporting characters conspicuously absent in Thunderbolts, despite it seeming logical to reintegrate them.

Thunderbolts* Was the Perfect Place for Bill Foster & Melinda Vostokoff to Return to the MCU

Bringing back characters like Ghost, Yelena Belova, and Red Guardian in the upcoming Thunderbolts film would logically imply a return for Bill Foster and Melina Vostokoff as well, given their past associations with these characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). The absence of Foster and Vostokoff from the Phase 5 movie is puzzling, especially considering the strong bond they shared with Ghost and Red Guardian respectively.

The addition of Laurence Fishburne and Rachel Weisz to the Thunderbolts cast would not only amplify its star power but also contribute significantly to its reputation. These talented actors could potentially become part of the MCU’s New Avengers, adding depth and diversity to this iconic team.

In the Marvel Universe, both in the comics and the animated “What If…?” series, as well as in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Bill Foster transformed into the size-shifting superhero, Goliath. It would have been thrilling to witness this development unfold in the upcoming Thunderbolts team, particularly following Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, which seems to have somewhat marred the reputation of size-changing heroes within the MCU. Foster has served as a mentor to Ava Starr since her phasing accident, so his absence from Thunderbolts feels inconsistent with their relationship.

*Note: The original text mentioned “Thunderbolts” twice, but it seems that the film or series has not yet been released and is only planned.

The narrative of Melina Vostokoff in the comic series Thunderbolts* could have been made even more thrilling if she had transitioned from a villainous role to that of the armored heroine Iron Maiden in Marvel Comics. This alternate scenario was touched upon in season 2 of What If…?, but her character could have evolved into a more heroic version within Thunderbolts*. This development could have served to continue the legacy of Natasha Romanoff (Scarlett Johansson) in the MCU, as Melina played a maternal role towards Romanoff and Belova. Furthermore, this transformation could have also introduced a new armored antihero, potentially enriching Robert Downey Jr.’s legacy as Iron Man by adding another layer to his character’s storyline.

Why Didn’t Bill Foster & Melina Vostokoff Appear in Thunderbolts*?

Following the release of the movie “Thunderbolts” in May 2025, screenwriter Eric Pearson shared with Screen Rant that an earlier draft of the Phase 5 film’s script had Bill Foster set to take on the role of Goliath. As Pearson explains, “There was a version where Bill Foster became involved along with Ghost. Originally, Bucky Barnes wasn’t in the script. I believe it was Bill Foster who was initially included, and he might have been replaced. But yes, that’s correct.” It is intriguing to ponder how “Thunderbolts” would have differed with Bucky Barnes absent, but the idea of Bill Foster as Goliath seven years after his MCU introduction would have been a remarkable addition to the storyline.

For Melina Vostokoff, things are taking an unexpected turn. Initially, there was talk that Thunderbolts* might serve as a spiritual successor to 2021’s Black Widow, and the increased presence of Belova and Shostakov made this prediction come true. In the closing scenes of Black Widow, Melina departed with Belova and Shostakov, but her current location within the MCU is a mystery. Thunderbolts* would have been an ideal platform to reintroduce these characters into the MCU, which is unfortunate as they could have joined forces with their antihero companions to become part of the New Avengers team.

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2025-07-28 02:10