Exploring the Future of Red Hulk in the Marvel Cinematic Universe

The Red Hulk has made a significant entrance into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), marking a pivotal moment for fans and characters alike. In the upcoming film, Captain America: Brave New World, expected to release in 2025, viewers will witness President Thaddeus “Thunderbolt”Ross—portrayed by Harrison Ford following the unfortunate passing of William Hurt—transform into the iconic scarlet giant. This transformation happens during a press conference when he loses control of his emotions, catalyzed by the gamma-irradiated pills he received from Tim Blake Nelson’s character, Samuel Sterns. Following a confrontation with Sam Wilson, the titular Captain America, Ross reverts back to his normal self and voluntarily chooses to enter a high-security facility known as the Raft, situated in the Atlantic Ocean. However, what lies ahead for his formidable new persona remains a topic of speculation.

Potential Paths for the Red Hulk’s Return

Diverse Options for Harrison Ford’s Red Hulk in the MCU

Captain America: Brave New World Promotional Image

Red Hulk Scene in Captain America: Brave New World

Captain America: Brave New World Meaning

The Raft, known for its impregnable design, may face unprecedented challenges as it houses Ross, a Hulk. Given his volatile emotions, viewers could see a scenario where he breaks free, especially since Samuel Sterns is also imprisoned there. Sterns might just have a backup plan to awaken the Red Hulk again, perhaps as a means of facilitating his own escape.

Moreover, considering Ross’s stature as a powerful military and political figure—he previously served as the President before resigning at the film’s conclusion—he possesses the resources to negotiate his release, especially if he perceives a strategic advantage to embracing his Red Hulk identity.

In the comics, Ross is closely associated with a team that includes characters like Frank Castle and Abigail Mercy, leading to speculation that he could appear in the forthcoming film Thunderbolts. The film’s asterisk in the title hints strongly at Ross potentially commanding the Thunderbolts by movie’s end, implying he might unleash the Red Hulk amidst their escapades.

Additionally, Ross encourages Sam Wilson to rethink the Avengers’ future, suggesting that Red Hulk could also become a member of this revitalized team. This scenario could lead to dramatic confrontations like the one against Doctor Doom, portrayed by Robert Downey Jr., in the anticipated Avengers: Doomsday, or even dwelling in a Hulk-centric territory on Doom’s Battleworld during Avengers: Secret Wars in 2027. The dynamic between Hulk and his various incarnations would undoubtedly add layers to the storyline.

On a different note, one of the most compelling possibilities would be a storyline involving a World War Hulk film adaptation, which has been a topic of discussion for years. With an influx of Hulks in the MCU, including She-Hulk, Skaar, and the newly introduced Red Hulk, the chances of a conflict-heavy narrative are on the rise. Fans are eager for any confirmation of such developments.

Thaddeus Ross and Potential Solutions to His Hulk Dilemma

Exploring Possible Treatments for Thaddeus Ross’s Red Hulk Transformation

Harrison Ford as President Thaddeus Ross

Alternatively, Ross’s choice of self-incarceration at the Raft signals his acknowledgment of the Red Hulk as a potential threat that needs addressing. This outlook opens avenues for character development where he may pursue a cure to his Hulk transformation. The specifics of this reversal—whether it involves advanced treatment or simply abstaining from gamma pills—remain uncertain, but it could lead to a narrative where Captain America: Brave New World stands as his only adventure as the Red Hulk. Such an outcome would be rather anticlimactic for fans invested in the character’s evolution.

The next anticipated appearance of the Red Hulk could occur in Thunderbolts, scheduled to hit theaters on May 2, 2025. As excitement builds, fans eagerly await news on the character’s future within the ever-expanding Marvel Cinematic Universe.

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