Summary

  • Marvel Studios is keeping fans guessing about the meaning of the asterisk in Thunderbolts* title.
  • Theories are circulating, but Kevin Feige remains tight-lipped about the movie details.
  • The true significance of Thunderbolts* title may not be revealed until the movie hits theaters in 2025.

Marvel Studios still have not confirmed what the asterisk means in the title of cast of Thunderbolts* took to the stage and delved deeper into their characters and the film's plot, the strange new title was left unexplored.

At San Diego Comic-Con 2024, Marvel Studios detailed more about Yelena, Bucky, Red Guardian, Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, and their allies, without delving into the new title. Theories have since run rampant about what the asterisk means in the title of Thunderbolts*, yet Kevin Feige and co. are keeping their cards close to their chests. As Thunderbolts* continues development ahead of a May 2025 release date, it remains to be seen if the true meaning of the title will ever be confirmed, or if it will be left until the film is released in theaters.

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Marvel's Thunderbolts*: Everything You Need To Know

With the MCU's Thunderbolts* movie having now officially released, here's everything you need to know about the Marvel film and its story.

1

What The Asterisk In The Thunderbolts* Title Could Mean For The MCU Movie

The Asterisk Could Have Several Different Meanings

Marvel's Thunderbolts logo in front of a multi-colored background
Custom image by Debanjana Chowdhury

Given that Marvel Studios have remained quiet about Thunderbolts* asterisk, theories will continue to be crafted about what the title could mean. In grammar, asterisks are often used to draw attention to further information that is not immediately evident. As such, many have theorized that the asterisk in Thunderbolts* refers to a hidden twist that will be revealed in the film. One such twist that has been theorized is that the Thunderbolts will instead be dubbed the Dark Avengers during the movie, with the asterisk in the title referring to their hidden team name.

Another possibility is that the asterisk links to Val's motivations in the MCU, as she has kept them hidden from those around her thus far. Regardless, it is clear that Thunderbolts* title is being kept secret for a reason. Whether it refers to the film's central twist or something related to the future of the MCU after the movie remains to be seen, the continued silence about the title change makes anticipation for the project even greater.

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Thunderbolts*
Release Date
May 2, 2025
Runtime
127 minutes
Director
Jake Schreier
Writers
Eric Pearson, Joanna Calo
Producers
Kevin Feige

Thunderbolts follows seven disillusioned individuals who find themselves trapped in a perilous situation. Tasked with a daunting mission, they must face the most shadowy aspects of their histories in order to survive and achieve their goals.

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May 2, 2025

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