Thunderbolts Easter Eggs: Major MCU and Marvel Comics References You Might’ve Missed

Thunderbolts charges full speed into the Marvel Cinematic Universe with a gritty team-up, darker tones, and plenty of nods for eagle-eyed fans. From deep-cut comic book references to surprising connections with past MCU events, Thunderbolts easter eggs tie it to the larger Marvel world and hint at what’s coming next.

Here’s a full breakdown of the major Marvel Easter eggs we spotted in Thunderbolts – including callbacks, cameos, and comic book connections. Major spoilers ahead!

10. President Hulk Returns (Sort of)

In a sly line, Valentina Allegra de Fontaine refers to the former U.S. president turning into a “giant red superhuman rage monster.” That’s a clear reference to Captain America: Brave New World, where Thaddeus Ross becomes Red Hulk. The film doesn't show Ross, but it firmly sets that transformation in MCU continuity.

9. Is Mel Secretly Songbird?

Valentina’s mysterious assistant Mel (played by Geraldine Viswanathan) is introduced with little fanfare, but her name has stirred fan theories. In the comics, Melissa Gold is better known as Songbird – a key member of the original Thunderbolts. While the movie doesn’t confirm her identity, Marvel might be planting seeds for future reveals.

8. “At Least One God” – A nod to Thor

When Sentry begins to spiral, he references the original Avengers having “at least one god.” It’s a pointed callback to Thor, the Asgardian who helped form the Avengers lineup and hints at Sentry’s growing power and instability.

7. O.X.E. Makes its MCU Debut

The shadowy organization O.X.E., headed by Valentina, plays a central role in the film. While this is their live-action debut, O.X.E. first appeared in Ultimate Fallout #3 (2011) and was later reintroduced in the Earth-616 continuity with 2023’s Thunderbolts #1. In the MCU, they’re responsible for developing Project Sentry and other top-secret operations.

6. Rogue Nations and Vibranium Fears

During her impeachment hearing, Valentina voices concerns about rogue nations wielding advanced technology—specifically mentioning countries like Wakanda and Talokan with access to vibranium. This callback ties directly to her last appearance in Wakanda Forever, highlighting her ongoing obsession with powerful global resources.

Also Read: Thunderbolts Movie Ending Explained: Are the New Avengers here?

5. Honoring NYC Heroes & Iconic Artifacts

During Valentina’s “Honoring NYC Heroes” gala, several relics from the Battle of New York are put on display. These include promotional banners featuring Captain America’s shield and Iron Man’s helmet, a pair of Chitauri cuffs that Bucky later uses to restrain Ghost, and Loki’s iconic scepter—first seen in The Avengers and later revealed to house the Mind Stone in Age of Ultron.

4. “On Your Left” Callback

In a clever moment, U.S. Agent John Walker helps free Ghost from a sonic weapon, inadvertently invoking the iconic “On your left” line from Captain America: The Winter Soldier – a subtle homage to Steve Rogers and Sam Wilson.

3. Sentry’s Comic Book Origins Revealed

As Yelena digs into Project Sentry, she reads aloud phrases like “the power of a thousand suns” and “golden guardian of good” – direct quotes from Sentry’s comic origins, emphasizing Bob Reynolds’ overwhelming power and intended heroism before his descent.

2. The Watchtower Rises

Another interesting Thunderbolts easter egg is when Valentina reveals she has renamed Avengers Tower to “The Watchtower,” a major reference to Sentry’s comic book base of operations. In Marvel Comics, the Watchtower is built atop Avengers Tower and serves as Sentry’s home and stronghold.

1.  A Legacy of Monumental Battles

When Valentina lures the Thunderbolts to the tower, she references its storied history – from the battle with Loki to Ultron’s assault and even the heroes’ casual party in Avengers: Age of Ultron. It’s a nostalgic nod to the MCU’s early days and the battles that defined a generation of heroes.

From subtle callbacks to overt comic book homages, there are multiple great Thunderbolts easter eggs packed with connective tissue to the MCU’s past and future. With O.X.E. rising, Red Hulk confirmed, and the Watchtower established, Marvel fans have a lot to speculate about. 

Thunderbolts is now playing in theaters.

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