3 Things to know about Red Hulk in Captain America: Brave New World

Captain America: Brave New World is all set to magnify the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) in 2025, and one of the most interesting facets of the film is General Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross—this time being portrayed by Harrison Ford.

However, Ross’s character in the MCU is about to take a striking turn, as he is anticipated to be turning into the dreadful Red Hulk.

Here are 3 things you need to know about Red Hulk before watching Captain America: Brave New World

1. Thaddeus Ross has been in the MCU since the beginning

Even though Captain America: Brave New World will be introducing actor Harrison Ford as Thaddeus Ross, the character has been a part of the MCU from the very beginning.

UK Photocall Of Marvel Studios' "Captain America: Brave New World" In London - Source: Getty

Thaddeus Ross was initially played by William Hurt and through him, Ross made his debut in the 2008’s The Incredible Hulk, where he headed the military’s search for Bruce Banner played by Edward Norton at the time.

Over the years, Ross has appeared in various important MCU films, including Captain America: Civil War, Avengers: Infinity War, Avengers: Endgame, and Black Widow.

In these movies, he chiefly functioned as a government official, frequently conflicting with the Avengers over concerns of law and liability.

After William Hurt died in 2022, Marvel Studios recast the role of Ross with Harrison Ford, who will make his MCU debut in Captain America: Brave New World.

Ford’s character in this film will be of more importance as he transforms into the dreadful Red Hulk which in turn would alter his existence in the MCU for perhaps a long run.

2. He played a major role in the Sokovia Accords

One of Thaddeus Ross’s most dominating influences on the MCU was his role in imposing the Sokovia Accords—a government obligation that required him to control the activities of The Avengers.

Following the disastrous events in Avengers: Age of Ultron where Sokovia was nearly demolished, Ross was highly involved in making sure that the Avengers operated under the supervision of the United Nations.

In Captain America: Civil War, Ross presented the Sokovia Accords to The Avengers, instigating a major disagreement between Steve Rogers/Captain America and Tony Stark/Iron Man.

A still of Ross from the trailer of The Civil War Begins – 1st Trailer for Marvel’s “Captain America: Civil War” (Image via. Marvel Entertainment/Youtube)

Those who resisted the Accords, including Steve Rogers and Sam Wilson, were declared as fugitives. Ross went so far as to have Sam put behind, which further solidifies his disagreement towards superheroes who are not constantly supervised.

With Sam Wilson now picking up the mantle of Captain America in Captain America: Brave New World, it is probable that strains between him and Ross will re-emerge —especially now that Ross has the strength of the Red Hulk at his disposal along with him also now being the President of the United States of America.

3. His feud with Bruce Banner is deeply personal

Ross’s enmity with Bruce Banner goes way past outside than just military duty—it’s also personal.

Before Bruce could transform into the Hulk, he was in a relationship with Betty Ross who is Thaddeus Ross’s daughter. However, when Bruce had his first transformation into the Hulk, he lost control and accidentally caused injury to Betty, leaving Ross with an un-shaken animosity for Banner.

Despite Betty improving from her injuries and continuing to support Bruce, Ross became obsessed with hounding Bruce down.

Over the years, his ruthless hunt of the Hulk only twisted his relationship with his daughter further. His hatred for Bruce eventually shaped his comprehensive anti-superhero ideology.

Ross’s transformation into Red Hulk in Captain America: Brave New World could dent the peak of his utter hatred toward the Avengers and other heroes, possibly also setting up a major conflict between him and Bruce Banner in further projects.

With Captain America: Brave New World introducing Thaddeus Ross’s transformation into the Red Hulk, the film is sure to take on an entirely new chapter for the MCU and its phases moving forward.

As anticipation builds for the new Captain America film, it is only wise to re-watch the entirety of the MCU to understand every single detail about Ross’ character in a much better light.