Bucky’s Shocking New Avengers Role Sets Up a Showdown with Doctor Doom

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Among the characters in Thunderbolts, Bucky, portrayed by Sebastian Stan, boasts the longest Marvel Cinatic Universe (MCU) backstory. He debuted as Steve Rogers’ (Chris Evans) best friend in Captain America: The First Avenger in 2011, then transformed into the antagonist Winter Soldier, was rescued, and has since been on a quest for redemption across multiple movies and TV series spanning over a decade. A recent twist in his journey unfolded in Captain America: Brave New World, where he announced his candidacy for Congress, utilizing his political experience. In Thunderbolts, Bucky’s tale continues as he grapples with the pros and cons of operating within the political system.

WARNING: Spoilers below for Thunderbolts*

As “Thunderbolts” begins, Bucky finds himself in a new role – elected congressman by the residents of Brooklyn. He’s not entirely at ease in this position, finding it challenging to craft impactful speeches for the media and yearning for opportunities to tackle injustice hands-on instead of getting bogged down in lengthy papers and public appearances preparations. However, Bucky is determinedly working hard to leave his vigilante days behind as a means of making amends for past wrongs.

As a congressman, Bucky finds himself deeply intrigued by the impeachment proceedings concerning CIA director Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (portrayed by Julia Louis-Dreyfus). Through the questionable corporation OXE, Valentina has been covertly establishing unlawful laboratories in impoverished nations and conducting inhumane experiments aimed at creating a superhero under her control. Regrettably, Congress faces challenges in substantiating these accusations due to Valentina’s intelligence and ability to erase any evidence linking her to these horrific acts.

In an attempt to aid in bringing down Valentina, Bucky seeks out Mel, who’s been troubled by Valentina’s questionable methods. He hopes Mel will reveal information that could imprison the CIA director. Initially, Mel is hesitant, but as Valentina grows increasingly erratic, she confides in Bucky for assistance. Although Bucky prefers an honest approach, his best chance to outmaneuver Valentina is to locate Mel and disrupt one of her operations under the guise of the Winter Soldier.

Bucky, after resuming his vigilante duties, finds himself in conflict with Yelena and other operatives that Valentina attempted to eliminate to safeguard her secrets. As he uncovers Project Sentry and the potential danger posed by Bob, Bucky decides it’s necessary to join the Thunderbolts to free him from Valentina’s grasp. Drawing upon his tumultuous history, he encourages the group with the idea that everyone deserves a chance at redemption, even those labeled as assassins, and can transform into heroes if they so choose. In this manner, Bucky reaffirms his Winter Soldier identity, distancing himself from politics. By the conclusion of Thunderbolts, Bucky solidifies his role as a vital member of the New Avengers squad.

Bucky Will Be on the Frontlines of Avengers: Doomsday

At the conclusion of “Thunderbolts”, Bucky provides Bob with much-needed emotional support, enabling him to help subdue the Void along with Yelena and the rest. After successfully thwarting the impending global catastrophe, Bucky chooses to arrest Valentina for her misdeeds. However, Valentina manages to deceive the Thunderbolts into attending a press conference, where she publicly announces them as the New Avengers, backed by the CIA director. Recognizing the significance of their fresh start and the chance to be recognized as official heroes, Bucky agrees with her plan.

In the extra scene after the credits of Thunderbolts, it’s shown that Bucky has been serving as part of the New Avengers for approximately 14 months. Despite this, the public is skeptical about giving second chances, which makes things challenging for the team. However, with the U.S. government backing them, the New Avengers have the power to strive towards their heroic aspirations. With Bucky being one of the strongest members and having relinquished his Sentry persona to control the Void, he will likely play a significant role in defending against Doctor Doom when he threatens the Sacred Timeline.

In the after-credits scene, it’s discovered that the Fantastic Four’s spaceship is arriving on Earth from another dimension, prompting Bucky and his fellow New Avengers to take part in the events of Avengers: Doomsday. However, Bucky’s role isn’t limited to the battlefield. The post-credits scene also suggests that Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie) is assembling a new Avengers team and has expressed opposition towards the New Avengers. Given his long-standing friendship with Sam and past alliance with both Captain Americas, Bucky can help mediate tensions between the two teams and foster unity when needed, for the greater good.

The movie titled “Thunderbolts” is now playing in theaters near you. Meanwhile, prepare for the upcoming releases – “Avengers: Doomsday” scheduled to premiere on May 1, 2026, and “Avengers: Secret Wars” set for release on May 7, 2027.

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2025-05-11 01:19