10 Marvel Characters Who Need to Join the Thunderbolts ASAP

In their freshly introduced movie, marking their entrance into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the group known as the (also called the New Avengers) take center stage. This film serves as both the culmination of Phase 5 and the kickoff to a brand-new chapter for the franchise. The team, consisting of diverse superheroes, antiheroes, and even reformed villains, unite to form a new defensive force, tackling global threats that require Avengers-level intervention.

Following the occurrences in Thunderbolts, it seems indisputable that this main group will endure and continue their operations. Much like the Avengers, the membership of the Thunderbolts is likely to shift throughout the years as new members join and others depart as they confront fresh perils. In case the MCU decides to incorporate fresh faces into the Thunderbolts squad, there are a handful of characters that could prove ideal additions to their roster.

Played by Alaqua Cox

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s latest addition, Alaqua Cox portrays Maya Lopez, also known as Echo, who makes her entrance in the Hawkeye series on Disney+. Once a captain under the Kingpin, Echo broke free after discovering he was behind her father’s demise. On a quest to reconnect with her roots, Maya discovers an ancient power that has been passed down through generations of women in her family for thousands of years.

Following the occurrences in the story of “Echo”, it’s unclear what Maya Lopez’s path will be within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Some speculate that she might team up with Daredevil in future installments of “Daredevil: Born Again”, but it’s also possible that Echo could align herself more closely with the Thunderbolts in upcoming seasons. Originally known as the Thunderbolts, this group is made up of characters who have had questionable pasts. Many were once villains before they joined forces. Given her own complicated history with the law, Echo may find camaraderie among individuals like Ghost, Yelena Belova, and the Winter Soldier within this team, as they are less likely to judge her for her past transgressions.

Played by Wilson Bethel

In the narrative of “Daredevil: Born Again,” Bullseye makes his comeback to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. A former FBI agent, Benjamin Poindexter, who grapples with borderline personality disorder, possesses an extraordinary skill: he can transform any object into a lethal weapon due to his exceptional precision and shooting prowess. Poindexter significantly impacts Daredevil’s storyline, hinting at potential expanded roles for this character in the MCU.

Despite Poindexter’s menacing nature, he isn’t purely wicked. A hardened villain like Bullseye might find a path to redemption within a group of heroes who empathize with his strife. In the comics, this malevolent character has been associated with the Thunderbolts and even joined the Avengers as part of Norman Osborn’s Dark Avengers team. However, it would be wise for the New Avengers to maintain vigilance around him.

First Appeared in Werewolf by Night

In simpler terms, the character known as Man-Thing, a large, moss-covered being, was initially featured in a special edition titled “Werewolf by Night.” A well-known figure from comic books, the fate of Man-Thing within the MCU (Marvel Cinematic Universe) remains unclear. At one point, he was potentially part of an ensemble known as the Midnight Sons. Unfortunately, this team-up has been indefinitely delayed. Consequently, Man-Thing is seeking a new role in the MCU, which he almost secured with the Thunderbolts.

Jake Schreier, director of “Thunderbolts”, shared that when he initially proposed the idea to Marvel, they considered adding a colossal swamp creature – Man-Thing. This character would have fit well with the group of flawed heroes and could have discovered purpose alongside other Thunderbolts during the film’s emotionally impactful third act. Although Man-Thing didn’t make it into the movie, there is still a possibility for him to join the team in future projects.

Played by Tony Dalton

In the series Hawkeye, a new character named Jack Duquesne was introduced as a possible main antagonist for future episodes. However, by the conclusion of the first season, it turned out that Jack was just a charming sword enthusiast. In another storyline, Jack resurfaces, now working as the masked crimefighter known as The Swordsman. Towards the end of this series, he is apprehended by Wilson Fisk. But if the Punisher manages to break out of jail, it’s possible that Jack might have also found freedom again.

Despite Swordsman potentially joining Daredevil’s team in “Born Again” Season 2, there’s a strong possibility that he might find a more suitable fit with the New Avengers at the Watchtower. Typically, Marvel teams have one wealthy member who funds their adventures; Jack could assume this role within the New Avengers, thereby liberating them from Valentina Allegra de Fontaine’s control.

Played by Harrison Ford

Following a prolonged development with General Thaddeus Ross, the Marvel Cinematic Universe unveils a new aspect of the character – his fiery temperament. This transformation occurs when the Leader devises a strategy to undermine the newly sworn-in President of the United States, causing Ross to metamorphose into a monstrous embodiment of rage. In the movie’s conclusion, Ross returns to his human form and submits to imprisonment in the Raft. Yet, it seems that the Red Hulk may resurface again for viewers in future instalments.

In a unique tie, Ross is often referred to as “Thunderbolt” Ross, mirroring the Thunderbolts’ nickname. Fans speculate that this military leader might feature in the comic series titled “Thunderbolts*“. Despite the team adopting the name New Avengers, Ross could still play a significant role within their ranks. Notably, most Marvel comic teams incorporate at least one character resembling the Hulk’s power and size. The Red Hulk may serve as this forceful member for the New Avengers, adding the necessary boost in strength to their roster.

A Familiar Face Could Join the New Avengers

In Marvel Comics, Melissa Gold, known by her nickname Songbird, plays a crucial role in the Thunderbolts group. Originally the villain Screaming Mimi, she was initially part of Baron Zemo’s first Thunderbolts squad who disguised themselves as heroes while the Avengers were away. However, Melissa and some of her teammates found they genuinely enjoyed being heroes and eventually made a switch to the side of good. Songbird has since been a consistent member across various versions of the Thunderbolts over time.

Although Songbird hasn’t made an appearance in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) yet, it’s possible her civilian identity has been introduced. Geraldine Viswanathan portrays Mel, an assistant to Valentina, in the upcoming movie “Thunderbolts.” While Mel’s full name isn’t disclosed, there’s speculation that she could be Melissa Gold, which would make her a strong candidate for Songbird. Since Mel is already working with the Thunderbolts, it seems plausible that Songbird might officially become part of the team soon.

Played by Rachel Weisz

Melina Vostokoff, at one point, temporarily cared for Natasha Romanoff during a secret mission in the U.S. during the Cold War, making her a Black Widow agent. Later, she joined forces with others as part of a sham family to dismantle the Red Room permanently. Although Melina has been absent since the events depicted in “Black Widow”, there’s a possibility that she might continue to play an important role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) in the future.

In the comic books, Melina is also known as Iron Maiden. Typically depicted as a villain, there’s potential for Iron Maiden to transition into a hero role within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Given her ties with Yelena and the Red Guardian, Melina would be an ideal candidate for the New Avengers team. Her abilities are more than capable of holding their own among this group of superheroes, and her level-headedness could prove invaluable as they navigate future challenges.

Played by Frank Grillo

Previously, Brock Rumlow served as a S.H.I.E.L.D. agent and led the disloyal S.T.R.I.K.E. unit that covertly served Hydra. In the storyline of “Captain America: The Winter Soldier,” he suffered severe wounds. Subsequently, Rumlow reappeared as the villainous Crossbones, but met an untimely end in an explosion soon after. However, there’s a possibility that the Marvel Cinematic Universe might resurrect this character for further thrilling escapades.

If the Marvel Cinematic Universe manages to clarify Crossbones’ reappearance, he would be a terrific addition to the Thunderbolts squad. Although Crossbones is undeniably a villain, the Thunderbolts team has had its fair share of members with similar pasts. The Thunderbolts could provide Rumlow an opportunity for atonement; however, whether or not he chooses to seize it remains uncertain.

Played by Tim Roth

Following his destructive spree through Harlem as portrayed in The Incredible Hulk, Emil Blonsky, also known as the Abomination, has been on a journey seeking forgiveness. The massive, amphibious being reappears in She-Hulk: Attorney at Law, having been granted parole following an emotional plea for a chance to make amends for his past actions. Since then, he has not surfaced, but it is assumed that he continues to wander the world in search of redemption.

The Thunderbolts/New Avengers could give Abomination an opportunity for redemption that he has longed for; a chance to rectify past errors and become the Marvel Cinatic Universe’s unexpected new champion among heroes, since Blonsky aligns well with the New Avengers team, as many of its members have had stints as villains previously.

Played by Daniel Brühl

Many Marvel Universe spectators were taken aback when Baron Helmut Zemo was omitted from the Thunderbolts squad in the MCU, leading some to speculate that it might be a clever ploy to win the world’s trust. Over time, he has been connected with the team, both as an ally and an adversary, which makes his absence from the Thunderbolts roster in Thunderbolts particularly puzzling.

Since the Thunderbolts have been rebranded as the New Avengers, it’s highly unlikely that Zemo will be part of their team due to his deep-seated dislike for superheroes. Nevertheless, the Marvel Cinematic Universe might yet deliver a twist similar to Zemo’s original Thunderbolts storyline from the comics. Now that the name is unoccupied, Zemo could potentially create his own version of the Thunderbolts, this time with more malicious objectives in mind.

2025-05-04 22:56