Los Angeles, California — As Marvel’s “Thunderbolts” movie hits theaters, the comic counterpart is experiencing a significant transformation, casting off its former identity in favor of a bold new direction. In a striking move, the comic will rebrand itself as “The New Avengers,” a shift that aims to breathe new life into the beloved super-team.
This unexpected evolution unfolds shortly after the film’s release, leading fans to speculate about the motives behind such a change. The upcoming comic series not only features unexpected characters but also embraces the weight of seeking to mirror the legacy set by Earth’s Mightiest Heroes. The big question now looms: can the likes of Carnage, Clea, and Wolverine rise to the occasion?
Writer Sam Humphries, who plays a pivotal role in this evolution, indicated that the rebranding was not a last-minute decision but rather a foundational part of the concept. “It was part of the very first conversation I had with Alanna Smith,” he explained, revealing that the plan was in place well before the launch of the first issue. This careful orchestration raises curiosity about how the characters will align—or clash—in the face of new challenges.
Humphries emphasized the uniqueness of the comic’s ensemble, deliberately choosing characters that represent various aspects of the Marvel Universe. His vision included powerful figures from different realms, such as mutants and mystical beings, to create a diverse and dynamic group. “My basic concept was to have the biggest badasses from distinct corners of the Marvel Universe join forces,” he stated. This decision ensures that while the story may share a title with its cinematic counterpart, it will carve its own identity with a roster filled with antiheroes.
The team is not exactly composed of champions noted for their virtue; instead, Humphries acknowledged that the lineup features a mix of complex personalities, each with their own moral ambiguity. “These aren’t your classic guardians; they are ruthless characters trying to do good, though not without significant conflict.” This complicated interpersonal dynamic sets the stage for fierce rivalry and friction within the team, offering a narrative rich in tension and unpredictability.
Bucky Barnes, a constant presence in both iterations of the team, is set to take on a crucial leadership role as the dynamics unfold. Humphries expressed his appreciation for the previous storytelling that established Bucky as a relatable figure with troubled past experiences. “He’s going to need all the wisdom he can muster as he attempts to rein in this chaotic group,” he said. With an array of potent personalities at play, Bucky’s ability to maintain cohesion will be tested as the new adventures commence.
At the core of this narrative shift lies a formidable new threat known as the “Killuminati,” described by Humphries as a disturbing offshoot of the classic Illuminati. “Someone messed up in trying to recreate the Illuminati, and now we have several nightmarish counterparts,” he teased. This premise instills an element of urgency that could drive the New Avengers into exhilarating confrontations as they face off against these deformed variants.
Art for the series will be crafted by Ton Lima, whose past work brings a gritty aesthetic to the pages. Humphries highlighted Lima’s unique approach, drawing inspiration from high-energy action films to enhance the visual storytelling. “Ton has an extraordinary ability to capture the brutality of the heroes and the grotesqueness of the villains, creating a captivating aesthetic for the comic,” he commented.
With the first issue of “The New Avengers” set for release on June 11, 2025, anticipation continues to build. The convergence of familiar characters with new twists suggests a journey filled with unpredictability, as the team ventures into uncharted narrative territory. As fans eagerly await this new chapter, they ponder whether these heroes can triumph against the challenges ahead or succumbs to their own tumultuous nature.