Marvel Unveils Thunderbolts as New Avengers

The Thunderbolts Become Marvel's New Avengers

With the Thunderbolts movie hitting theaters, Marvel Comics prepares to sunset one version of this iconic super-team while launching an entirely new chapter. But here's the twist: Mirroring Marvel Studios' shock move renaming Thunderbolts to "The New Avengers" after its opening weekend, the comics division is executing the same bold rebranding. Now antiheroes like Carnage, Clea, and Wolverine must prove they can fill Earth's Mightiest Heroes' boots.

Can Outcasts Become Earth's Protectors?

Writer Sam Humphries admits transforming this rogue's gallery into credible Avengers will require seismic character growth. His vision features Marvel's most dangerous misfits struggling to function as anything resembling a traditional superhero squad.

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The Genesis of Marvel's Bold Switch

"This wasn't some last-minute pivot," Humphries reveals about the surprise rebranding timed with MCU synergy. "From my first conversation with editor Alanna Smith, we envisioned this as New Avengers playing by different rules." The creative team maintained absolute secrecy, even avoiding digital paper trails bearing the new series name.

Humphries crafted his lineup with purpose - assembling Marvel's most formidable yet problematic figures from across the publishing line:

• Carnage (Spider-family)
• Clea (Mystical realm)
• Wolverine/X-23 (Mutants)
• Namor (Atlantis)
• Hulk (Gamma-powered)

When Titans Collide

"Interpersonal dynamics go BOOM," Humphries describes his combustible team dynamic. "These aren't polished heroes - they're rage-fueled powerhouses barely containing their worst impulses." Early conflicts erupt between Clea and Carnage's opposing moralities, Namor and X-23's clashing leadership styles, and Bucky Barnes facing his greatest challenge yet.

The Killuminati Threat Emerges

Adding to their woes, Humphries introduces the Killuminati - terrifying corrupted doppelgängers of Marvel's legendary Illuminati council. Artist Ton Lima brings visceral intensity reminiscent of high-octane action cinema.

The New Avengers must overcome their mutual disdain when Marvel's strangest threat hits shelves June 11, 2025.

Discover why Marvel Studios renamed Thunderbolts and explore the MCU's Bucky Barnes dilemma.