Unveiling The Thunderbolts Post Credits Scene: What It Means for the MCU’s Avengers Future

The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is buzzing with anticipation for Thunderbolts, set to hit theaters on May 2, 2025, as the final film of Phase Five. Fans are particularly eager to dive into The Thunderbolts Post Credits Scene, which promises to set the stage for the Multiverse Saga’s climactic entries, Avengers: Doomsday (2026) and Avengers: Secret Wars (2027).

Leaked details from the film’s London premiere on April 22, 2025, have sparked heated discussions about the implications of these scenes. In this article, we’ll explore the descriptions of Thunderbolts’ two post-credits scenes, their significance, and how they pave the way for the MCU’s future, all while keeping you spoiler-free until necessary.

What Are the Post-Credits Scenes in Thunderbolts?

Thunderbolts features two post-credits scenes, a return to the MCU’s classic formula after recent films like Captain America: Brave New World opted for just one. According to reports from outlets like ComicBookMovie.com and social media posts on X, the first is a mid-credits scene, and the second is a true post-credits scene, requiring fans to stay through the entire credits roll.

These scenes are said to blend humor with monumental setups, reminiscent of the game-changing teases in Thor: Ragnarok and The Avengers. Early reactions praise their emotional depth and connection to the broader MCU narrative.

What Happens in the Mid-Credits Scene?

SPOILER WARNING: The following section contains spoilers for The Thunderbolts mid-credits scene.

The mid-credits scene reportedly features a lighthearted moment with Red Guardian (David Harbour) rummaging through cereal boxes in a store, searching for a toy. This scene, described by X user @VenomMarvelSony, serves as a comedic breather, echoing the MCU’s tradition of using post-credits gags to spotlight character quirks, like the shawarma scene in The Avengers.

While it may seem standalone, some speculate it could hint at Red Guardian’s attempt to reclaim normalcy after the film’s intense events, potentially setting up his personal arc in Avengers: Doomsday. The focus on a mundane activity underscores the grounded, human elements of Thunderbolts’ antiheroes, a theme praised in early reviews.

What Is Revealed in the Post-Credits Scene?

SPOILER WARNING: The following section contains spoilers for The Thunderbolts post-credits scene.

The second Thunderbolts Post Credits Scene is where the MCU’s future takes shape. According to multiple sources, including ComicBookMovie.com and Maxblizz, the Thunderbolts, now rebranded as the “New Avengers,” are in their newly acquired Avengers Tower. They discuss Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie) suing them over the “Avengers” name, claiming he holds the copyright for his own team.

The scene escalates when Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh) mentions strange space anomalies, and the team is alerted to an object entering Earth-616’s atmosphere—revealed to be the Fantastic Four’s rocket. This moment, accompanied by Michael Giacchino’s iconic Fantastic Four theme, has fans buzzing about its implications.

How Does the Post-Credits Scene Tie to Avengers: Doomsday?

The Thunderbolts Post Credits Scene directly sets up Avengers: Doomsday, slated for May 1, 2026. The arrival of the Fantastic Four’s ship suggests their integration into Earth-616, aligning with The Fantastic Four: First Steps (July 2025). This scene mirrors Thor: Ragnarok’s mid-credits tease of Thanos’ ship, hinting at a major threat looming in Doomsday.

The mention of Sam Wilson’s legal battle over the “Avengers” name indicates a rivalry between his team and the Thunderbolts, potentially creating tension among Earth’s heroes as they face Doctor Doom, played by Robert Downey Jr. The rebranding to “New Avengers” also answers the asterisk in Thunderbolts’ title, a mystery teased by Kevin Feige, signaling their evolution from antiheroes to a formal team.

What Could This Mean for Avengers: Secret Wars?

Looking further ahead, The Thunderbolts Post Credits Scene lays groundwork for Avengers: Secret Wars (2027). The Fantastic Four’s arrival and the mention of space anomalies could foreshadow multiversal threats like Galactus or the incursions central to Secret Wars.

The Thunderbolts’ role as the “New Avengers” suggests they’ll join forces with the Fantastic Four, X-Men, and Sam’s Avengers in a massive crossover. Posts on X speculate about a “Gamma War” involving The Leader or even Doctor Doom capturing Sentry, though these remain unconfirmed. The scene’s focus on uniting disparate heroes mirrors the MCU’s Phase 1 buildup to The Avengers, indicating a return to cohesive storytelling after Phases 4 and 5’s scattered narratives.

Are There Conflicting Reports About the Scenes?

The Thunderbolts Post Credits Scene has sparked debate due to conflicting leaks. A Reddit user on r/marvelstudios noted three rumored versions: Reed Richards talking to Sentry, Doctor Doom capturing Sentry, or the confirmed Fantastic Four ship scene.

X posts, like one from @ViatrentX, corroborate the New Avengers and Fantastic Four narrative, but some fans on X express skepticism, urging others to avoid spoilers. These discrepancies highlight the challenge of navigating early leaks, but the Fantastic Four tease aligns with Marvel’s confirmed Phase 6 slate, lending it credibility.

Fans are advised to experience the scenes firsthand to avoid misinformation.

Why Are Fans So Excited About These Scenes?

The excitement surrounding The Thunderbolts Post Credits Scene stems from its blend of nostalgia and forward-looking teases. Early reactions on X, such as @hzjoe03 calling it “the best post-credits scene in the entire MCU,” praise its emotional weight and multiversal stakes.

The return to two post-credits scenes, a staple of Phases 2 and 3, signals Marvel’s confidence in Thunderbolts as a pivotal chapter. The scenes’ focus on Yelena, Sentry, and the Fantastic Four has rekindled fan faith after Phases 4 and 5’s unresolved teases, promising a unified path to Doomsday and Secret Wars.

Some Closing Thoughts: A New Era for the MCU

As Thunderbolts concludes Phase Five, its post-credits scenes are poised to redefine the MCU’s trajectory. The Thunderbolts Post Credits Scene not only transforms the team into the “New Avengers” but also bridges The Fantastic Four: First Steps and Avengers: Doomsday, setting up a thrilling clash of heroes and villains.

With the Fantastic Four’s arrival and hints of multiversal chaos, Marvel is crafting a narrative that echoes the Infinity Saga’s interconnected glory. Fans should buckle up for Thunderbolts on May 2, 2025, and stay through the credits for a glimpse of the MCU’s bold future.

What are your thoughts on these leaks? Share them in the comments below, but beware of spoilers!