Is the Thunderbolts Post-Credit Scene Hiding a Twist?

WARNING: This article includes spoilers from Thunderbolts*. The Thunderbolts* post-credits scene may leave audiences guessing, as Kevin Feige reveals more about this pivotal moment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. While the film’s conclusion positions the characters as the New Avengers, the post-credits tag introduces a significant hint that has ignited speculation for what lies ahead in Phase 6. However, the implications of this scene might be more complex than they initially appear.

In a recent Empire Magazine interview, Feige clarified the nature of the post-credits scene, which depicts a ship with the Fantastic Four logo entering Earth’s atmosphere. He confirmed it is indeed a Fantastic Four ship but added a tantalizing twist:

The name of their ship is the Excelsior, and there is a Fantastic Four ship entering the MCU in the tag. But I’m not sure they’re the same ship.

While many fans eagerly theorize that this moment sets the stage for the arrival of the Fantastic Four in the MCU, it’s essential to recognize Marvel Studios’ tendency to subvert audience expectations, particularly when they play with deeper lore. Although it would seem logical that the Fantastic Four are making their grand entrance in the final moments of Thunderbolts*, there’s a deliberate omission regarding who—or what—is on that ship.

As Feige pointed out, just because it’s a Fantastic Four ship doesn’t imply it’s from The Fantastic Four: First Steps universe. The mystery surrounding the ship raises questions that suggest there’s more beneath the surface.

Though the ship represents an exciting connection to the Fantastic Four, it’s equally plausible that someone aboard could be none other than Robert Downey Jr.’s Doctor Doom. Regardless of whether this version of Doom hails from The Fantastic Four: First Steps, he could feasibly have commandeered an Excelsior ship to reach Earth-616. Such an approach serves as a clever twist on expectations, connecting back to Avengers: Doomsday while subtly preparing audiences to await the arrival of The Fantastic Four: First Steps after Thunderbolts*.

In true MCU fashion, Feige’s revelations open the door for endless speculation. The post-credits scene of Thunderbolts* could lead us down various paths. Ultimately, clarity will emerge at some point in Phase 6. Whether that happens this July with The Fantastic Four: First Steps or in 2026 through Avengers: Doomsday remains to be seen. Given that The Fantastic Four: First Steps is just around the corner, fans won’t have to wait long to uncover whether Thunderbolts* was bestowing hints for their film or setting the stage for the next grand Avengers story.

Source: Empire Magazine