Thunderbolts* Twist Reveals New Avengers, MCU Teases

Marvel Studios' Thunderbolts* concludes with the team rebranded as the New Avengers, revealing that the asterisk in the title stands for 'The New Avengers.' Despite theater promotions and marketing now using 'The New Avengers,' Disney and Marvel confirm Thunderbolts* remains the official title, with the retitling intended as a marketing twist rather than an actual name change. This narrative twist mirrors Marvel Comics' New Thunderbolts* series, which was secretly titled New Avengers all along. The film's ending and post-credits scene tease the Fantastic Four's arrival in the MCU, fueling speculation about future crossovers. Leaks and spoilers, including those from Robert Downey Jr. and Marvel's own marketing, have contributed to controversy and fan debate. The movie's moderate box office performance and its marketing strategy have sparked mixed reactions, with some fans praising the twists and others concerned about franchise fatigue.