4 must-read Marvel Comics to learn more about Red Hulk and Thunderbolt Ross

The Captain America: Brave New World trailer was better than anyone hoped. We saw Sam Wilson in his updated Captain America costume and witnessed him looking good in action. There was also a look at Giancarlo Esposito in action (potentially as rumored character George "G.W." Bridge) and Harrison Ford as President Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross. There was even a joke about Ross looking different (a nod at William Hurt who previously played him).

Speaking of Harrison Ford’s new role, the end of the trailer briefly showed Ross as Red Hulk. He's seen catching Captain America's shield and slamming it on the ground. There were rumors and previously unverified reports that Ross would become Red Hulk. It looks like they’re officially verified.

Red Hulk, explained

Thaddeus Ross first appeared in Incredible Hulk No. 1 in 1962. He spent most of his time in Marvel Comics hunting the Hulk. After constantly losing to his rival, and seeing Bruce Banner (a.k.a. the Hulk) marry his daughter Elizabeth "Betty" Ross, Thaddeus became the thing he hated. Yes, he became a Hulk. It’s a true testament to Ross’ hate.

If you’re unfamiliar with comics, you may not have known that there’s a Red Hulk. That means you don’t know that he’s unlike his green counterpart. For example, they’re both strong, but the green one is stronger. And while the green Hulk gets stronger when he gets angry, the Red Hulk gets hotter. If you want to know more about Red Hulk and Thaddeus Ross, these four Marvel Comics will help with that, preparing you for what to expect in Captain America: Brave New World.

World War Hulk

Writer:  Greg Pak

The Hulk returned to Earth during World War Hulk (he was shot into space by the Illuminati during Incredible Hulk No. 91 and continues in Planet Hulk). After the heroes failed, General Ross stepped in with the U.S. military. Once again, Ross was defeated. But not before leaving readers in shock at what they witnessed in this now-iconic storyline.

Hulk (2008)

Writer: Jeph Loeb

Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross’ loss during World War Hulk was his biggest. Because of this, Ross agrees to let The Leader and M.O.D.O.K turn him into the Red Hulk. You must be desperate if you let them experiment on you; they are among the more untrustworthy characters ever.

In this series, we see what a Hulk with Ross' military experience is capable of. He starts by knocking out the Watcher, killing the Abomination with a gun, and defeating Thor. As Jeph Loeb’s run continues, Ross’ Hulk proves he’s craftier and more ruthless than the green Hulk - so much so that he depowers Bruce Banner.

Avengers (2010)

Writer: Brian Michael Bendis

After Ross realizes his mistakes, he attempts to redeem himself. Along the way, he comes across The Hood (Parker Robbins) who’s collecting the Infinity Gems. Ross fights The Hood but is badly beaten. This leads to Ross helping the Avengers defeat The Hood.

Like most villains turned heroes, he's given a shot as an Avenger. Without him, they would have lost to The God of Fear (Fear Itself), Norman Osborn's Goblin Cult, and the Phoenix Five (Avengers vs X-Men). His stint with the roster didn't last long, but Ross can always say he was an Avenger.

Thunderbolts

Writers: Daniel Way, Charles Soule

If I was going to recommend one title for readers to learn more about Red Hulk, it’s Daniel Way’s Thunderbolts. He recruits The Punisher, Elektra, Deadpool, The Leader, and Agent Venom to help him solve problems that The Avengers can’t. It’s brutal, fun, and the perfect example of who Thaddeus Ross is and what he’s willing to do to protect America. You also get a group of the best killers in Marvel doing what they do best.

Which Marvel Comics would you recommend that involves Red Hulk or Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross? Are these good picks? Let us know on the Bam Smack Pow Instagram and Twitter.