Marvel Fans Shocked: THUNDERBOLTS* Post-Credits Scene Lasts Nearly 3 Minutes
THUNDERBOLTS* Sets New Marvel Record for Post-Credits Scene
Marvel Studios’ latest movie, THUNDERBOLTS*, has officially set a new record — and fans are still recovering from the shock. The film features a post-credits sequence that lasts a staggering 2 minutes and 54 seconds, making it the longest in Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) history.
To put that into perspective, it's longer than all five mid- and post-credit scenes from Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 combined!
And yes — those two nearly three-minute scenes aren’t just for fun. They drop major hints about Marvel’s future, including a huge connection to the upcoming movie Avengers: Doomsday.
Who Stars in THUNDERBOLTS
THUNDERBOLTS* brings together an all-star anti-hero squad:
- Florence Pugh as Yelena Belova
- Sebastian Stan as Bucky Barnes (Winter Soldier)
- Wyatt Russell as John Walker (U.S. Agent)
- David Harbour as Red Guardian
They are recruited by Valentina Allegra de Fontaine and labeled as the “new Avengers” in the movie’s climactic finale.
Post-Credit Scenes: What Happens
First Post-Credits Scene: Thunderbolts’ Fame
The first scene gives us a look at how the Thunderbolts are embracing their new status as Avengers. They’re living large and loving the spotlight — finally recognized as heroes, not outcasts.
This scene cements their place as a new force in the MCU — a team of former misfits now acting as the next line of defense.
Second Post-Credits Scene: Thunderbolts Meet the Fantastic Four
The second scene is where things really explode. The Thunderbolts are shown teaming up with the Fantastic Four as they prepare to descend toward Earth.
Fans believe this signals the beginning of a multiverse-level event, likely setting the stage for Avengers: Doomsday, Marvel’s next big crossover movie.
That Second Scene Was Actually for Avengers: Doomsday
In a revealing interview with Entertainment Weekly, director Jake Schreier shared a fascinating behind-the-scenes detail:
The second post-credits scene wasn’t even shot for THUNDERBOLTS* originally — it was meant for Avengers: Doomsday.
Schreier said:
“That scene comes from the set of a movie that is officially beginning production on Monday.”
He added that he didn’t direct the clip himself but was lucky enough to be on set and watch his characters join a much bigger universe.
Scene at the Watchtower: Thunderbolts Argue in New HQ
One standout moment shows the Thunderbolts arguing at the Watchtower, hinting at internal conflicts and leadership tensions. According to Schreier:
“It was so fun to see your characters go off into this bigger context. We’ve been living in our own contained world, but it was really fun to see them there.”
This suggests Marvel is laying the groundwork for crossover dynamics that will become important in the next phase of the MCU.
New Costumes for Everyone — Except One
In the final scene, fans noticed something curious:
Each Thunderbolt member appears in a brand-new suit… except Bob, who is still in casual clothes.
When asked about this, Schreier remained tight-lipped:
“I might get shot if I say anything more,” he joked.
This mysterious detail could point to a hidden power, a future betrayal, or even a big reveal in Avengers: Doomsday.
What Does This Mean for the Future of Marvel
Marvel appears to be passing the torch from the original Avengers to a new generation of heroes — and anti-heroes.
By labeling the Thunderbolts as the “new Avengers,” Marvel is:
- Setting up the next Avengers lineup
- Merging fan-favorite teams like the Thunderbolts and Fantastic Four
- Teasing multiverse or cosmic-level threats ahead of Doomsday
What’s Next Avengers: Doomsday Hits Theaters in 2026
Marvel’s next big team-up movie, Avengers: Doomsday, is set to release in May 2026. It’s expected to feature:
- New and returning Avengers
- The Thunderbolts and Fantastic Four
- A rumored return of Robert Downey Jr. as Iron Man (possibly via multiverse)
With filming now beginning and Thunderbolts already linking directly into the plot, fans can expect the story to escalate quickly over the next year.
THUNDERBOLTS* Now Playing in Theaters
Whether you're a hardcore Marvel fan or just love thrilling superhero drama, THUNDERBOLTS* is a must-watch. The film is currently running successfully in theaters, and those post-credit scenes alone are worth the ticket price.
