Marvel Studios\' latest film, Thunderbolts, released on May 2, 2025, has introduced a significant twist to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The asterisk in the title hints at a rebranding, with the team eventually being dubbed the \"New Avengers\" within the film\'s narrative. The storyline follows characters like Yelena Belova, Bucky Barnes, and U.S. Agent as they navigate complex missions and confrontations, leading to their reluctant acceptance of the new team name. Director Jake Schreier confirmed that this rebranding was planned from the film’s inception, aiming to reflect the formation of a new team in the MCU.