Thunderbolts Team Introduced in New Marvel Film

Thunderbolts*, released on May 2, spotlights a team of Marvel's lesser-known antiheroes and side characters, many of whom struggle with personal trauma and a search for meaning after years on the sidelines. The film centers on Yelena, Natasha Romanoff’s sister, and brings together characters like Red Guardian, Bucky Barnes, Ghost, and John Walker, all under the manipulations of Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, now head of the CIA. Despite its comic book roots—where the Thunderbolts often featured villains turned heroes and prominent leadership from figures like Baron Zemo—the movie notably leaves Zemo out, with writers explaining his story no longer fit the film’s direction. The team’s name, Thunderbolts*, is revealed to have no connection to the MCU’s Thaddeus 'Thunderbolt' Ross; instead, it evolves from within the team's own journey and internal debates. The film also introduces Mel, Valentina's assistant, who ultimately aids Bucky Barnes in challenging Valentina's control over the group. While some fans noted the lack of comic-accurate members, the movie sets the stage for future team expansion and deeper exploration of these complex characters.