Thunderbolts (2025) End Credits Explained: What the Post-Credit Scenes Reveal About the Future of the MCU

Marvel’s Thunderbolts (2025) might be a film about misfit heroes and redemption, but its post-credit scenes give us a glimpse into what’s next for the MCU. As always, Marvel has packed these moments with hints, teases, and jaw-dropping reveals that leave us questioning what’s coming down the pipeline. Here’s a deep dive into the meaning of the Thunderbolts end credits, and what they could mean for the future of the MCU.

Thunderbolts (2025): Decoding the Post-Credit Scenes and Their Implications for the MCU

Marvel Studios' Thunderbolts (2025) has not only introduced a new team of antiheroes but also set the stage for significant developments in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). The film's post-credit scenes offer crucial insights into the future trajectory of the MCU, particularly concerning the evolving dynamics of its superhero teams.

Mid-Credit Scene: The Rise of the New Avengers

The mid-credit scene presents a light-hearted moment featuring Alexei Shostakov (Red Guardian) in a grocery store. He enthusiastically points out cereal boxes adorned with the faces of the Thunderbolts, highlighting their newfound fame. This scene serves as a humorous nod to the team's growing recognition and public presence. However, it also subtly underscores the shifting perception of the Thunderbolts from covert operatives to public figures, setting the stage for their future endeavors in the MCU.

Post-Credit Scene: A Glimpse into the Future

The post-credit scene takes a more serious tone, offering a glimpse into the future of the MCU. Fourteen months after the events of Thunderbolts, the team, now officially branded as the New Avengers, faces legal challenges. A montage of newspaper headlines reveals that Sam Wilson (Captain America) has filed a lawsuit against them for unauthorized use of the "Avengers" name. This development introduces a new layer of conflict within the MCU, highlighting the complexities of legacy and identity among its superhero teams.

The scene culminates with the New Avengers observing a mysterious spacecraft marked with a "4" entering Earth's atmosphere. This marks the arrival of the Fantastic Four, signaling the beginning of their integration into the MCU. The appearance of the Fantastic Four not only excites fans but also sets the stage for future crossovers and collaborations, particularly with the New Avengers.

Implications for the MCU

These post-credit scenes signify a pivotal moment in the MCU's evolution. The establishment of the New Avengers introduces a new faction that operates outside the traditional framework established by the original Avengers. Their legal disputes and interactions with other superhero teams will likely be explored in upcoming films, adding depth to the MCU's narrative landscape.

The introduction of the Fantastic Four further expands the MCU's roster of characters, promising new storylines and dynamics. Their arrival also raises questions about potential crossovers with other Marvel entities, including the X-Men and characters from the multiverse.

Conclusion

Thunderbolts (2025) serves as a catalyst for significant changes within the MCU. The post-credit scenes not only provide a glimpse into the future of the New Avengers and the Fantastic Four but also set the stage for complex inter-team dynamics and crossovers. As the MCU continues to evolve, these developments promise to enrich its storytelling and expand its universe.

Stay tuned to see how these post-credit scenes unfold in the next MCU phase—and how the Thunderbolts will factor into the universe’s next big conflict.