By Marvel Studios has heightened a Thunderbolts* narrative element by integrating a copyright symbol into various official Avengers social media profiles. To clarify the reasoning and implications, we’ll delve into some spoilers for Thunderbolts* (though Marvel Studios has already spoiled this themselves).
Thunderbolts* concludes with the asterisk transforming the title into New Avengers, which Marvel has now revealed by issuing a poster with the modified title replacing the original logo.
Additionally, the Thunderbolts* post-credits scene, directed by the Russo Brothers on the site of Avengers: Doomsday, indicates that the now government-endorsed team is in conflict with the group Sam Wilson started forming in Captain America: Brave New World – to the extent that Sam has actually trademarked the Avengers name.
Now, Marvel Studios has made this jest a reality by showcasing a copyright symbol on some official Avengers social media accounts, indicating that the rift between the Avengers and the New Avengers will certainly influence the future of the MCU, with members from both factions featured in the ever-growing cast of Avengers: Doomsday.
In the comics, the New Avengers also faced challenges from a competing Avengers group following the significant comic storyline Civil War, which was adapted into the 2016 blockbuster Captain America: Civil War.
Check out our review of Thunderbolts*, also known as New Avengers, now in theaters, concluding Marvel Phase 5. Phase 6 will commence with The Fantastic Four: First Steps on July 25. For additional information, browse our guide to other forthcoming Marvel films scheduled for 2025 and beyond.