Bucky Barnes’ Future in the MCU: Could He Lead the Thunderbolts?

The Marvel Cinematic Universe is constantly evolving, isn’t it? New characters emerge, old favorites change, and teams rise and fall. One thing we’re particularly excited about is the upcoming “Thunderbolts” movie slated for 2025. With a lineup of anti-heroes and reformed villains, the big question on everyone’s mind is: where does Bucky Barnes, a.k.a. the Winter Soldier, fit into all of this chaos?

The Winter Soldier’s Journey to Redemption: A Recap

Let’s be real, Bucky Barnes has had a rough go of it. Brainwashed, weaponized, and forced to commit unspeakable acts, he spent decades as a tool of HYDRA. But thanks to the unwavering belief of his best friend, Steve Rogers, Bucky has been on a long and arduous journey towards redemption. We’ve seen him grapple with his past, confront his demons, and slowly but surely emerge as a hero in his own right. Think of it like a superheroic version of a really intense therapy session, stretched out over several movies and a TV series.

His evolution hasn’t been easy, but that’s what makes his character so compelling. Bucky’s struggle is relatable – we all carry baggage from our past, even if it doesn’t involve super-soldier serums and assassination missions. He’s a reminder that even the most damaged individuals can find a path to healing and purpose. That makes him an interesting candidate for something like the Thunderbolts.

Why Bucky Barnes is a Perfect Fit for the Thunderbolts

The Thunderbolts, essentially Marvel’s version of the Suicide Squad, are a team comprised of reformed (or at least somewhat reformed) villains and anti-heroes. These characters are often morally gray, operating in the shadows and tackling missions that the squeaky-clean Avengers wouldn’t touch with a ten-foot pole. Bucky, with his complicated past and unique skillset, fits right into that mold.

His history as the Winter Soldier makes him invaluable. He’s a master assassin, a skilled tactician, and possesses enhanced strength and agility. But more importantly, his personal experiences give him a unique perspective. He understands what it’s like to be manipulated, controlled, and used for evil. This understanding could allow him to empathize with other members of the team and potentially guide them towards a more heroic path. He can be a calming presence in the chaos.

The Winter Soldier as the Thunderbolts’ Leader? The Case For.

While initially appearing as a reluctant member, Bucky possesses qualities that make him a strong contender for leadership within the Thunderbolts. He’s seen war, loss, and betrayal firsthand. He’s been at the bottom and is clawing his way back up. This experience gives him a level of maturity and pragmatism that some of the other potential candidates might lack.

Consider his dynamic with Sam Wilson in “The Falcon and The Winter Soldier.” While their relationship started off rocky, they eventually learned to trust and respect each other. This showcases Bucky’s ability to work effectively in a team environment and even take on a supportive role. Leading the Thunderbolts would be a natural progression, challenging him to step up and take responsibility for a group of individuals who desperately need guidance. He’s already demonstrated he can work with and inspire others.

Potential Challenges for Bucky within the Thunderbolts

Despite his suitability, Bucky leading or even being a member of the Thunderbolts wouldn’t be without its challenges. His past is a major hurdle. Many people, both within the MCU and the audience watching at home, may still struggle to trust him fully. The public perception of the Winter Soldier remains deeply ingrained, and overcoming that stigma will be an uphill battle.

Furthermore, Bucky’s own internal struggles could prove to be a source of conflict. He’s still grappling with the weight of his past actions and constantly fighting to keep his demons at bay. Being surrounded by other individuals with their own dark secrets and violent tendencies could trigger his trauma and potentially lead to a relapse. He needs to be surrounded by people that he trusts to help him cope.

The Thunderbolts Roster: Who Will Bucky Be Working With?

The confirmed lineup for the “Thunderbolts” movie includes a diverse group of characters, each with their own unique skillset and baggage. We have Yelena Belova (Black Widow), the deadly assassin looking for purpose; Red Guardian (Alexei Shostakov), the Soviet super-soldier with a penchant for exaggeration; US Agent (John Walker), the disgraced Captain America with a shaky moral compass; Taskmaster (Antonia Dreykov), the master mimic who can replicate any fighting style; Ghost (Ava Starr), the phasing operative with unstable molecular structure; and the team leader Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (Contessa Valentina Allegra de la Fontaine), a mysterious figure with her own agenda.

Imagine Bucky trying to keep this motley crew in line! The potential for conflict and chaos is immense, but that’s precisely what makes the Thunderbolts so intriguing. Each member brings something unique to the table, and their interactions are bound to be explosive. Bucky’s presence would add another layer of complexity, forcing him to navigate the personalities and agendas of these individuals while simultaneously confronting his own past.

How the Thunderbolts Could Impact Bucky’s Overall MCU Arc

Joining the Thunderbolts could be a pivotal moment in Bucky Barnes’ overall arc within the MCU. It would represent a significant step forward in his journey towards redemption, allowing him to use his skills and experiences for a greater good, even if that good is defined by morally ambiguous means. It could also give him a renewed sense of purpose and belonging, something he’s desperately craved since losing Steve Rogers and shaking off the Winter Soldier programming.

The Thunderbolts could offer Bucky a chance to finally find his place in the world, to build a new identity beyond the shadows of his past. He could become a mentor figure to the other members, guiding them towards a more righteous path and helping them overcome their own demons. Perhaps, through his involvement with the Thunderbolts, Bucky can truly become the hero he always had the potential to be.

Alternative Paths for Bucky Barnes in the MCU: Beyond the Thunderbolts

While the Thunderbolts seem like a natural fit, there are other potential avenues for Bucky’s character development within the MCU. He could continue to work alongside Sam Wilson as a member of the new Avengers, using his skills to protect the world from global threats. He could also embark on a solo mission, seeking to atone for his past sins by helping those who have been wronged by HYDRA or other evil organizations.

Another intriguing possibility is for Bucky to become a mentor figure to younger heroes, sharing his experiences and guiding them on their own paths. Given the rising influx of young heroes in the MCU, like Ms. Marvel or Kate Bishop, Bucky could offer invaluable guidance and experience to these newcomers. Perhaps he could even run a secret agency of his own. The possibilities are vast, and the future of Bucky Barnes remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: his story is far from over.

Predicting Bucky Barnes’ Role in Thunderbolts: Our Theory

Based on what we know about Bucky’s character arc and the established dynamics within the MCU, our prediction is that he will initially join the Thunderbolts as a reluctant member, drawn in by the promise of a greater purpose or perhaps even manipulated by Valentina Allegra de Fontaine. He’ll struggle with the team’s morally questionable tactics and the personalities of its members, but ultimately find a sense of camaraderie and purpose within the group.

While he may not initially be the leader, he’ll likely become a key figure within the team, offering guidance and support to his fellow Thunderbolts and potentially challenging their darker impulses. Ultimately, Bucky will play a crucial role in shaping the Thunderbolts’ future, helping them evolve from a group of anti-heroes into a more cohesive and effective fighting force. Whether he leads them into the light or embraces the gray area remains to be seen, but his presence will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact. He might be the moral compass of the team, even if they don’t listen to it all the time.

FAQ

Will Bucky Barnes be the leader of the Thunderbolts in the 2025 movie?

While nothing is confirmed, it’s certainly a possibility! Bucky’s experience, tactical skills, and ability to connect with others make him a strong candidate. However, the current leader is Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, and Bucky’s tendency to avoid leadership roles could be a factor. It’s all speculation until the movie releases!

How does Bucky's past as the Winter Soldier affect his potential role in the Thunderbolts?

His past is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it gives him unique skills and perspective. On the other hand, it’s a source of trauma and mistrust. Overcoming that stigma is key to his success in the Thunderbolts.

What kind of relationship can we expect between Bucky and the other Thunderbolts members?

Expect a complex and dynamic relationship! Each member of the Thunderbolts has their own unique personality and history, and Bucky’s interactions with them will be shaped by his own experiences and his desire for redemption. It’ll likely be filled with conflict, humor, and unexpected moments of connection.