Marvel Studios has a ‘Thunderbolts’ project in the works

Marvel is rumored to be developing a project headlined by the Thunderbolts.

As the Marvel Cinematic Universe enters a new era, Marvel Studios is looking to lesser-known characters to fill out its slate. One property that’s been discussed is Thunderbolts, and a new report suggests that it may finally be moving forward.

According to MCU Cosmic, a Thunderbolts project is currently in the early stages of development at Marvel Studios. It’s unknown if this will be a film or TV series but, as MCU Cosmic points out, Marvel’s recent focus on Disney Plus could mean a series.

There have been several incarnations of the Thunderbolts team since they first appeared in The Incredible Hulk No. 449 in 1997. Through the years, the one key constant of each team is that they’re mostly comprised of reformed supervillains. Former leaders of the squad include notable names like Baron Zemo, Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross and the Winter Soldier.

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In the case of the MCU, Ross would be the most ideal figure to lead the government-sanctioned team. And as one of the minds behind the Sokovia Accords — which the team would likely operate under — bringing in the ex-general would make sense. Although, it’s probably a safe bet that he wouldn’t adopt his Red Hulk alter ego as he did in the comics.

There are also a few villains that could end up making the team’s roster. One of the first that comes to mind is Helmut Zemo, who was last seen in federal custody at the end of Captain America: Civil War but will return in a major role in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. Ava Starr/Ghost, who seemed to be on a path of redemption after Ant-Man and the Wasp, is also a prime candidate. Hannah John-Kamen, who plays the character, previously teased future plans for Ava.

We’ll have to wait and see if Thunderbolts does come to fruition, but Marvel Studios’ desire for new characters leaves the door wide open for the team of rogues.