Marvel’s Thunderbolts*: The Real Name Revealed!

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When Marvel Studios unveiled their promotional strategy for Thunderbolts, eagle-eyed fans quickly picked up on an intriguing asterisk added to the title of the ensemble film. This sparked a flurry of speculation among fans, who were trying to decipher the meaning behind the asterisk and pondering if the Thunderbolts would adopt a new name in the movie. Even the cast members of Thunderbolts fueled curiosity by making enigmatic remarks about the significance of what appeared to be a trivial detail. Now that the film has been released, we can disclose that the asterisk does indeed signal a change in the Thunderbolts’ name, and Marvel Studios chose to keep this revelation under wraps because the new title holds immense importance for the continuity of the MCU.

WARNING: Spoilers below for Thunderbolts*

In “Thunderbolts,” characters Yelena (played by Florence Pugh), John Walker (Wyatt Russell), and Ghost (Hannah John-Kamen) are compelled to unite following orders from Valentina (Julia Louis-Dreyfus), who wants them eliminated due to potential scrutiny of her covert operations. Over the years within Marvel Cinematic Universe lore, this trio had been employed by the CIA director on black ops missions. During their journey, they encounter Bob (Lewis Pullman), a puzzling figure unaware of his presence in one of Valentina’s hidden facilities. As anticipated, tensions arise when these diverse individuals collaborate, with Yelena teasing John about his past by recounting an insignificant tale from her childhood soccer team, the Thunderbolts.

In the course of the narrative, Red Guardian (portrayed by David Harbour) becomes part of the action, thrilled that his daughter is emulating Natasha Romanoff’s (Scarlett Johansson) path and creating her own superpowered squad. Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan), now a congressman, is drawn into the turmoil to prevent Valentina from utilizing Bob, the result of an illicit human experiment, to maintain power. As they navigate each twist and turn on this treacherous path, the team remains unofficial until the climax of Thunderbolts. Consequently, “Thunderbolts” is merely a recurring joke until Yelena’s group is officially presented as the New Avengers to the global audience.

How the Thunderbolts Become the New Avengers in the MCU?

In her role as CIA director, Valentina leveraged her authority and connections to establish medical facilities in impoverished nations, serving as secretive testing grounds for human experiments. Her ambition was to breed a powerful superhero, the Sentry, who would stand tall as Earth’s foremost protector, conveniently aligned with U.S. interests and subservient to Valentina’s control. The sole remnant of these trials is Bob, a tormented man grappling with bipolar disorder, a history of domestic violence, substance abuse, and erratic personality changes. Valentina remains indifferent to the perils. Upon locating Bob, she orchestrates a public spectacle, presenting him as her new hero to the world, demonstrating his ability to swiftly vanquish a gang of augmented criminals such as Yelena and her companions.

Just as anticipated, events spiraled out of control. The ominous side within Bob, known as The Void, surfaced and brought chaos to New York City. Recognizing no one else could protect the citizens, The Thunderbolts courageously risked their lives. Their actions were met with applause from the crowds. Meanwhile, Valentina was taken aback by this turn of events and hatched a new strategy for her own survival. After successfully subduing The Void and reinstating Bob’s control, Valentina strategically beckoned the new heroes to a press conference. There, she unveiled them as the New Avengers, a team born from her tireless efforts that Congress had attempted to dismantle.

Under public gaze, The Thunderbolts choose to embrace their fresh designation as the New Avengers, aligning with Valentina’s deception. This new status offers them a chance to start anew and make a difference in their lives. However, Yelena gently advises Valentina that she now holds sway over the New Avengers, for her past transgressions will stay concealed only if she submits and stands by their side in all their endeavors. Thus, the Avengers Tower, previously owned by Valentina, transforms into the Watchtower, serving as the operational base for the New Avengers, safeguarding Earth from battles that others cannot handle.

Thunderbolts* is now playing in theaters.

How did you feel about the Thunderbolts being rebranded as the New Avengers within the Marvel Cinematic Universe? Feel free to share your thoughts below in the comment section.

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2025-05-01 22:42