Yes, the Marvel Cinematic Universe already has the Avengers. But it might also be a brilliant idea to give some of the villains more screen time or perhaps their own adventure. Of course, it's no secret that Thunderbolts would be that project, with a new report claiming that fan-beloved Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh) will have the most prominent role in the film.
In the latest episode of Matthew Belloni's The Town podcast, Deadline's Justin Kroll revealed that Florence Pugh's Yelena Belova is set to be the leader of the MCU's Thunderbolts.
Kroll also describes the film as "basically Marvel's Suicide Squad," while also noting that Yelena will lead a team that includes Wyatt Russell's John Walker and Daniel Brühl's Zemo. See Kroll's full quote below:
"[Florence Pugh] has got the Marvel superhero that's already got a spin-off. Upcoming for her, actually, on that character is this Thunderbolts film, which is basically Marvel's Suicide Squad. Hopefully, it has better results. But the concept is it'd be her leading the team of like Wyatt Russell's [John Walker], Daniel Bruhl's [Zemo], those anti-heroes that aren't exactly good but aren't exactly bad. So there's that. And people seem to like the Yelena character."
Ever since Yelena's first appearance in 2021's Black Widow, Marvel fans didn't have a hard time embracing the character's hysterical yet badass persona. Yelena then returned to Disney+'s Hawkeye, which showcased an unseen side of her, uncovering how captivating and strong-willed she is, which undoubtedly qualifies her to be a leader.
If the Thunderbolts is indeed an MCU ripoff of DC's Suicide Squad, then maybe Yelena would be the MCU's Harley Quinn? Nonetheless, Suicide Squad has proven that it's not always the heroes who dominate the box office, sometimes fans also worship the bad guys.
Jake Schreier (Paper Towns) is confirmed to direct the film, and Black Widow's Eric Pearson will write the screenplay. For now, Marvel Studios hasn't yet announced the cast for Thunderbolts.
Stay Tuned for more updates about the Thunderbolts!