Given his affinity for comic books, Marvel Cinematic Universe actor Daniel Brühl discussed the potential for Baron Helmut Zemo to make an appearance in the much-awaited film Thunderbolts. Known for his cunning, the longtime finest antagonist caused division among the Avengers in his MCU debut, Captain America: Civil War.
Finally, the morally gray team from the pages will be brought to the big screen in Thunderbolts. A variety of MCU characters from previous films and television series will be included in the cast. Thus, Marvel fans have been eagerly waiting to see their favorite German-Spanish actor join the superhero ensemble as Helmut Zemo.
When asked if he had been approached to star in Thunderbolts, Brühl, 45, said he would be more than willing to return.
Daniel Brühl Is More Than Open To Returning In Thunderbolts
As the main antagonist in Captain America: Civil War (2016), Daniel Brühl’s Helmut Zemo made his MCU debut. He portrayed the puppet master who was able to turn Iron Man, Captain America, and the other Avengers against each other. Following that, in 2021, Zemo made an appearance in the Disney+ series The Falcon and the Winter Soldier.
In an earlier interview, Brühl was asked by Screen Rant if he had received an offer to star in Thunderbolts. According to the Spanish-German actor, he would not have been able to return for the MCU film because he was working on Ron Howard’s flick. But Brühl is more than happy to return, as he shared the following information:
“It’s always a delicate subject matter of what can you say? What can you not say? It’s such a complex universe, as you know, that I only understand maybe 1% of it. There’s certain opportunities for you, there’s certain constellations where you might be part of more than in others. But it’s all a big if and a question mark. But again, if that would have been one of the projects for Zemo. I wouldn’t be shooting here in Australia with Ron Howard’s. And [if] destiny brings Zemo back sometime again, I would probably not say no.”
It is still unclear why Zemo was not previously revealed to be a cast member of Thunderbolts, given that joining the group would make sense for him in terms of his next development. That being said, it would not be shocking if Zemo’s comeback was kept a secret, as Marvel Studios is aware that Brühl is a fan favorite among MCU audiences.
Well, hopefully, later in 2024 will shed some light on Zemo’s potential role in Thunderbolts.
Marvel’s Calculated Move to Save Daniel Brühl for a Bigger Role?
Marvel has always been meticulous in developing their characters’ arcs and ensuring a balanced storyline. A possible explanation for Daniel Brühl not being recruited for Thunderbolts is due to Marvel’s plan to flesh out current characters further prior to introducing a fresh one to the mix. By exploring the depth of the current roster and incorporating fresh perspectives, Marvel may want to give Thunderbolts a stronger foundation.
Unquestionably, Brühl is a phenomenal talent with an alluring on-screen persona. The way he portrayed Zemo in Captain America: Civil War and The Falcon and the Winter Soldier on Disney+ actually riveted viewers. But he might unintentionally eclipse some of the other cast members in an ensemble film like Thunderbolts. Thus, Marvel could strategically steer clear of this to keep the ensemble dynamic in check.
Marvel Studios is recognized for its intricately designed and interconnected universe. Brühl’s involvement in Thunderbolts may have been kept under wraps so that it could serve as a springboard for an unexpected cameo in another flick or project. In this manner, they can maintain the element of surprise and pique fans’ interest in his much-awaited comeback.
Although fans can’t help but wonder why Brühl has not yet been cast in Thunderbolts, there is a good chance Marvel has a well-planned strategy. Whether it be for character development or strategic storytelling, one thing is for sure: Brühl’s journey in the MCU is far from over, and fans are looking forward to his next move!
The most likely release date for Marvel’s Thunderbolts is June 25, 2025.
