Why is there an asterisk in the MCU’s Thunderbolts* title? Possible reasons explored

Thunderbolts* from the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) franchise is scheduled for release on May 2, 2025. Directed by Jake Schreier, the film is set to conclude Phase Five of the MCU.

Written by Eric Pearson, Lee Sung Jin, and Joanna Calo, the film stars Florence Pugh, Sebastian Stan, David Harbour, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus, among others. It was filmed in 2024 across Georgia and Utah.

Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige clarified that the asterisk in the film's title is intentional and has a specific meaning. He hinted that its significance will become clear only upon watching the movie, fueling theories about its purpose.

The plot of Thunderbolts* revolves around a group of antiheroes assembled for government missions. These characters, each with a complex past, must navigate their differences to work as a team.

---

Why does Thunderbolts* have an asterisk?

The asterisk in the Thunderbolts* title has prompted several theories, each attempting to decode its significance. Here are the possible explanations:

1) A placeholder for a future name

This theory suggests that the asterisk indicates a placeholder. The team's name in Thunderbolts* might evolve by the end of the movie, much like the Disney+ series, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, which became Captain America and the Winter Soldier.

The change could represent a shift in their identity, as they might potentially be associated with names such as Secret Avengers or the Dark Avengers.

2) Tribute to Thunderbolt Ross

The asterisk may indicate the team's affiliation with Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross, portrayed by Harrison Ford. Ross's influence could be critical in the forthcoming film, Captain America: Brave New World, as he serves as the President of the United States.

The team's name might be intended to honor him, while the asterisk suggests that there could be hidden intricacies, such as his transformation into Red Hulk.

3) Setting up the Dark Avengers

The eponymous group of the Thunderbolts* has the potential to transform into the Dark Avengers, drawing inspiration from Marvel Comics. Led by morally ambiguous figures such as Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, the group may take on the roles of fallen Avengers.

The asterisk could further emphasize the team's darker undertones, with characters such as Bucky Barnes and Yelena Belova, who could fill the gaps left by Captain America and Black Widow.

---

Hidden meanings in the Thunderbolts* asterisk

The secret Avengers theory

The group in the Thunderbolts* may be a covert team that functions as the Secret Avengers. As Bucky Barnes has the potential to assume leadership, the group may adopt this new identity by the film's conclusion. Symbolically, the asterisk may represent their transition from antiheroes to those fighting for a more noble cause.

Valentina’s motivations

Valentina Allegra de Fontaine’s unclear intentions add another layer to the asterisk’s meaning. As the CIA director and orchestrator of the team, her hidden agenda could be tied to the symbol. The asterisk might indicate the team’s incomplete understanding of her true motives, setting the stage for future conflicts.

Introducing Sentry and the void

Lewis Pullman’s Bob, rumored to be Sentry, brings another dimension to the theory. In Marvel Comics, Sentry’s alter ego, the Void, represents a destructive force. The asterisk might hint at this duality, suggesting that Bob’s role will be central to the team’s journey.

---

The asterisk in Thunderbolts* title is a deliberate addition, which has intrigued the audience and sparked discussion. Whether it signifies a placeholder, a tribute to Thunderbolt Ross, or a nod to the team’s evolving identity will be revealed upon the film’s release. Stay tuned for more news and updates on Thunderbolts* and similar projects as the year progresses.