Who’s Most at Risk in Avengers: Doomsday? Thunderbolts Members Ranked
The Thunderbolts are set to join Avengers: Doomsday, but which team members are most likely to meet their end? We rank each character’s chances, from safest to most at risk.
For quite some time, speculation swirled around the mysterious asterisk that appeared at the conclusion of Thunderbolts*. The eventual revelation that this group would become The New Avengers was met with a rather mixed response from fans. Once a collection of outcasts and anti-heroes, the Thunderbolts now find themselves at the centre of Marvel’s next major ensemble, with seven key figures confirmed for Avengers: Doomsday. Here’s a look at which of these characters might not make it out alive, ordered from least to most likely to fall.
Yelena Belova: The New Black Widow’s Prospects
Yelena Belova, introduced in the 2021 film Black Widow, has since stepped into the shoes of Natasha Romanoff, following her predecessor’s sacrifice in Avengers: Endgame. Florence Pugh’s portrayal has quickly become a fan favourite, and her character’s leadership within the Thunderbolts has only solidified her importance. Given her recent rise and the affection audiences have for her, it’s highly improbable that Marvel would write her out so soon. Removing Yelena would risk alienating viewers and cutting short a promising arc, so she appears to be the safest bet among the group.
John Walker: U.S. Agent’s Unfinished Business
Wyatt Russell’s John Walker, first seen in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, was initially positioned as the government’s answer to Captain America. His journey from would-be hero to the more ambiguous U.S. Agent has been fraught with controversy and complexity. While a redemptive sacrifice might be on the cards in the future, it seems more likely that Marvel will keep him around for now, allowing his story to develop further. His presence adds a certain tension, especially when facing off against Sam Wilson, and his narrative feels far from over.
Ghost: Redemption or Ruin?
Ava Starr, better known as Ghost, is defined by her unstable molecular state and the constant search for a cure. Her tragic backstory, first explored in Ant-Man and the Wasp, leaves her open to a possible self-sacrificial act. Whether she finds redemption through saving her teammates or succumbs to her own condition, her future is uncertain. The possibility of her demise, while poignant, would bring closure to her ongoing struggle and pain.
Bucky Barnes: The Winter Soldier’s Final Chapter?
Bucky Barnes, one of the few remaining original characters from Marvel’s earlier phases, has endured a long and arduous journey. His transformation from brainwashed assassin to team leader has been marked by hardship and growth. With much of his story already told, it would not be surprising if Bucky’s arc concluded with a final act of heroism. His death would carry significant emotional weight, echoing the departures of other foundational figures like Steve Rogers and Tony Stark.
Red Guardian: A Father Figure’s Fate
Alexei, the Red Guardian, brings both humour and heart to the team, particularly through his paternal bond with Yelena. His potential loss would serve as a powerful emotional moment, especially for Yelena, and could act as a catalyst for her further development. David Harbour’s performance has been widely praised, but the narrative impact of Red Guardian’s death could be too significant for Marvel to pass up.
Sentry: Power with a Price
Sentry, portrayed by Lewis Pullman, stands out as one of the most formidable characters in the Marvel universe. However, his immense abilities, coupled with the destructive potential of his alter ego, The Void, make him a likely candidate for an early exit. Marvel has a tendency to limit the screen time of overwhelmingly powerful figures, and Sentry’s presence could be used to drive the plot forward, either through a dramatic sacrifice or a catastrophic loss of control. In either scenario, it seems unlikely he’ll remain for long.
Key Facts About: Thunderbolts*
Directed By: Jake Schreier
Cast: Florence Pugh, David Harbour, Lewis Pullman
Release Date: May 2, 2025
IMDb Rating: 7.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 88%
Worldwide Box Office: $382 million
Production House: Marvel Studios
Where to Watch: Disney+
Which Thunderbolts member do you think is most at risk in Avengers: Doomsday? Share your thoughts below. Avengers: Doomsday is scheduled for release on 18 December 2026 in the United States.