Thunderbolts Post Credit Scenes Explained: Sam Wilson Lawsuit, Fantastic Four Tease, and Red Guardian’s New Role

Marvel fans are in for a thrilling ride as Thunderbolts introduces a daring new chapter in the MCU. With emotionally-charged performances, shocking betrayals, and stunning reveals, the movie carves a unique space within the cinematic universe. But what truly leaves audiences talking are the Thunderbolts post credit scenes, which not only tease future storylines but also bring back fan-favorite elements in unexpected ways.

After years of anticipation, the Thunderbolts film delivers an unorthodox superhero experience, blending covert missions, psychological exploration, and a touch of dark comedy. Yet, as is tradition with the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the movie doesn’t end with the credits. Instead, it explodes into further possibilities through two provocative post-credit scenes that have set social media and fan forums ablaze.

Thunderbolts Post Credit Scenes: Breakdown and What They Mean for the MCU

The Thunderbolts post credit scenes are not just tacked-on gags or loose teasers—they’re strategically placed to shift the tone of the Marvel universe and lay the groundwork for massive upcoming arcs.

Scene One: Red Guardian’s Cereal Box Fame

The first post-credit scene brings a lighter tone. Set just a short time after the climax, it shows Alexei Shostakov, a.k.a. Red Guardian, proudly posing next to a cereal box emblazoned with the image of the newly crowned “New Avengers.” While comedic in nature, the scene subtly critiques corporate and media branding within the superhero world. The image of the antiheroes turned promotional icons hints at deeper satire regarding celebrity culture in the Marvel universe.

But beyond humor, it serves as a smart setup. This moment reinforces the uneasy alliance among the Thunderbolts and the label they were practically tricked into accepting. As the team awkwardly embraces the spotlight, questions arise about whether they’ll become legitimate protectors—or pawns in another political power play.

Scene Two: Sam Wilson, Lawsuits, and the Fantastic Four

The second scene, however, throws the door wide open for what’s next. Set 14 months later, we find Sam Wilson (Captain America) taking legal action against the Thunderbolts for unauthorized use of the “Avengers” title. This nods to both real-world branding rights and a larger identity crisis within the MCU.

Yelena’s cryptic mention of “strange space anomalies” is more than just cosmic chatter—it’s a precise setup. Just as she utters the words, a mysterious alert captures their attention. An object is rapidly descending into Earth-616’s atmosphere. The reveal? It’s the iconic rocket of the Fantastic Four, crash-landing into Marvel’s main cinematic timeline.

This scene not only introduces the long-anticipated Fantastic Four but suggests that the team’s arrival is directly tied to the cosmic anomalies—and possibly the repercussions of tampering with the Void inside Sentry. It implies a major crossover event is brewing, one that will blur team boundaries and redefine heroism across dimensions.

The Void, the Sentry, and the Emotional Core of Thunderbolts

One of the film’s standout features is the depiction of Sentry (Bob Reynolds) and the haunting psychological force within him—The Void. Throughout the film, the Thunderbolts grapple with Bob’s increasingly unstable state, as anyone who touches him experiences dark visions of their past.

This element not only elevates the movie’s tension but adds emotional weight rarely seen in ensemble superhero films. The team’s descent into the Void—a symbolic and literal place—becomes a test of redemption, resilience, and identity. It’s a moment where trauma is acknowledged rather than brushed aside, and the need for healing becomes just as important as heroism.

Bucky Barnes emerges as the emotional anchor, leading the mission not through brute strength, but empathy—mirroring his personal journey from Winter Soldier to reluctant congressman to moral leader.

Valentina’s Fall and the Rise of the “New Avengers”

Julia Louis-Dreyfus delivers a chilling performance as Valentina Allegra de Fontaine. In a rare move, Marvel allows a central antagonist to unravel in the public eye. From secret puppet master to disgraced villain on trial, Valentina’s descent adds realism to her arc and raises stakes for every decision she makes.

Her ultimate act of deception—branding the Thunderbolts as the “New Avengers” during a press conference—carries enormous implications. It’s not just a name drop. It’s political warfare, using public perception as both a shield and a weapon.

This twist transforms the Thunderbolts’ mission into a crisis of conscience. Do they accept a title they didn’t ask for? Or do they fight against the narrative and potentially tear themselves apart?

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The Future of the Thunderbolts in the MCU

The inclusion of major characters such as Bill Foster and Melina Vostakov, along with cryptic hints toward interdimensional threats, positions Thunderbolts as more than just a spin-off. It’s a narrative bridge connecting grounded espionage stories with cosmic-level conflicts.

With Sam Wilson back in the legal ring, the Fantastic Four making their entrance, and the MCU’s tone shifting toward morally gray protagonists, the Thunderbolts are poised to redefine what a superhero team can be.

Expect future films to explore themes of redemption, media manipulation, and the true meaning of legacy.

Potential Thunderbolts Sequels and Team Dynamics

If Marvel moves forward with a Thunderbolts sequel or crossover, fans should anticipate new members joining the fold. The likes of Moon Knight, Daredevil, or even Elsa Bloodstone could seamlessly blend into this morally murky universe.

Dynamics will also shift internally. Will Yelena step into a leadership role? Can Bucky maintain his moral compass? What happens if the Void takes over again?

There’s ample room for exploration, especially as the Thunderbolts begin to clash with—and perhaps replace—traditional superhero teams like the Avengers or Guardians.

FAQs: Thunderbolts Post Credit Scenes and Movie Insights

What are the Thunderbolts post credit scenes?

There are two post-credit scenes. The first shows Red Guardian next to a cereal box celebrating the “New Avengers,” and the second features Sam Wilson suing the team, just as the Fantastic Four’s rocket enters Earth-616.

Does Sam Wilson appear in Thunderbolts?

Yes, Sam Wilson appears in the second post-credit scene, where he is seen suing the Thunderbolts for unauthorized use of the Avengers name.

Is the Fantastic Four officially joining the MCU in Thunderbolts?

Yes, their arrival is teased in the second post-credit scene, where their spacecraft crashes into Earth-616, setting the stage for their integration into the MCU.

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What happens to Valentina in Thunderbolts?

Valentina is exposed for her crimes, faces impeachment, and ultimately tries to manipulate public perception by branding the Thunderbolts as the New Avengers.

Who dies in the Thunderbolts movie?

Taskmaster is killed early in the film by Ghost, a moment that underscores the internal conflict and betrayal within the team.

Will there be a Thunderbolts sequel?

While not officially confirmed, the film’s ending and post-credit scenes suggest a follow-up or crossover with other MCU teams is highly likely.