With the Thunderbolts movie now in theaters, Marvel Comics is set to conclude one version of this franchise while launching a new chapter for the beloved super-team. In a surprising turn, Marvel has renamed Thunderbolts to “The New Avengers” shortly after its premiere. This change also extends to the new Thunderbolts comic, where characters like Carnage, Clea, and Wolverine must now carry the legacy of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes. Can they rise to the occasion?
Achieving this will not be easy, as the characters must evolve into a united and effective Avengers team. This insight came from our recent interview with writer Sam Humphries. Continue reading for more details on the Thunderbolts/New Avengers transition, Humphries’ character selection process, and the new threats facing this powerful team.
Introducing the New Avengers
Given Marvel Studios’ secretive nature regarding upcoming projects, we were eager to learn when Humphries was informed about the title change. Was a New Avengers comic part of his initial vision, or was it a recent adjustment? Thankfully, Humphries shared that this was not a last-minute addition but a component of the early plans.
“This was discussed in my very first conversation with Alanna [Smith],” Humphries reveals. “Keeping it under wraps for months has been exhilarating yet maddening, like organizing a surprise party for thousands. There’s not even a file on my computer labeled ‘New Avengers.’ You just never know.”
Humphries adds, “There were logistical challenges to navigate, requiring me to be ready for last-minute adjustments. However, the plan was solidified by the time I began working on the first issue. The lineup reflects both the New Avengers and the Killuminati, echoing the previous teams created by Bendis and Hickman.”
Bucky Barnes and the Killuminati
Despite the title change mirroring the MCU, the New Avengers roster differs significantly from its cinematic counterpart. Bucky Barnes remains the one constant post-Thunderbolts: Doomstrike, tasked with uniting a group of strong personalities into a cohesive team.
Humphries expresses admiration for the previous writers’ work with Bucky, saying, “I’m honored to build upon their achievements. The world is chaotic, and someone needs to step up.” The villains they’ll face, dubbed the “Killuminati,” are twisted versions of the original Illuminati, presenting a formidable challenge.
Humphries describes the dynamic: “There are now seven deformed worst-case scenarios running wild. Bucky has his work cut out for him.” The creative team includes artist Ton Lima, whose style is inspired by popular action films, making for an intense visual experience. The New Avengers #1 is set to launch on June 11, 2025.
