Thunderbolts* Sets Stage for Avengers: Doomsday

Marvel Studios' Thunderbolts* will conclude Phase Five of the MCU, bringing together antiheroes Yelena Belova, Bucky Barnes, Red Guardian, Ghost, Taskmaster, and John Walker under Bucky's leadership to face the immensely powerful Sentry (Bob), played by Lewis Pullman, in New York City. Directed by Jake Schreier, the film is designed to lay groundwork for Avengers: Doomsday, with Sentry's power potentially being manipulated by Doctor Doom in future MCU storylines. The mysterious asterisk in the title continues to generate speculation, as cast and Schreier tease it signals a major MCU shift or secret. Promotional materials highlight Sentry’s overwhelming abilities, raising stakes for the human team. The story also focuses on Yelena Belova's emotional growth following the events of Endgame. Thunderbolts* is positioned as both the Phase Five finale and a crucial bridge to the next Avengers saga.