Josh Brolin’s Rumored Return As Thanos Sparks New Theory

Josh Brolin’s Rumored Return as Thanos Sparks New Theory: Could He Team Up with the Avengers Against Doctor Doom? Could the Mad Titan Thanos Make a Comeback in the MCU? Here’s How It Might Happen!

Josh Brolin last portrayed Thanos in Avengers: Endgame, where the Mad Titan met his end. Since then, fans have wondered if he would ever return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Now, with Brolin expressing interest in reprising the role, a fan theory suggests an unexpected twist: Thanos could return as an ally of the Avengers, facing off against Robert Downey Jr.’s Doctor Doom. This exciting theory taps into the multiverse concept, where countless variants of Thanos exist, allowing for a potentially redemptive arc for one of Marvel’s most iconic villains.

Here’s a breakdown of how this Thanos variant theory might work, why fans are excited, and what it could mean for the future of the MCU.

Josh Brolin’s Rumored Return as Thanos Sparks New Theory (1)

Josh Brolin Wants to Return as Thanos – But on One Condition

In a recent interview, Brolin shared with Collider that he would be open to returning as Thanos, but only if the storyline justified it. “If the narrative makes sense,” he stated, “I’m all in.” With Marvel now embracing the concept of the multiverse, the opportunity for multiple variations of Thanos exists. This means Brolin could bring Thanos back in a new, surprising light – perhaps even as a hero.

This setup could introduce a variant of Thanos whose motivations are more noble than the version who sacrificed half the universe in Infinity War and Endgame. With the MCU already exploring character variants (like Loki and Spider-Man), a heroic Thanos isn’t as far-fetched as it might sound.

A Multiverse Twist: Could Thanos Be the Good Guy?

The theory making rounds among fans suggests that a variant of Thanos could emerge from the multiverse – not as a villain, but as a force working with the Avengers. This Thanos would share some of the same motivations as the original Mad Titan, but without the same brutal approach to population control. Instead, he could have a mission to preserve balance in the universe in a different way.

This plot direction could pit a morally aligned Thanos variant against Victor Von Doom, who is rumored to be played by Robert Downey Jr. in an upcoming phase. If true, this would place two legendary actors and characters in opposition, but this time with Thanos fighting to prevent the destruction of the multiverse rather than causing it.

As Screen Rant reports, “With the multiverse open, any number of characters – even dead ones – can come back in new, unexpected ways.” (Screen Rant, 2024)

Why Thanos and Doctor Doom Together Make Sense

The return of Thanos could make for a powerful storyline if Doctor Doom’s goal is to consolidate power over the multiverse. In the comics, Doom is a notorious mastermind, often manipulating cosmic forces to serve his ambition of absolute control. A Thanos variant who wants to preserve cosmic balance might be compelled to join forces with the Avengers to prevent Doom from gaining too much influence.

This possible team-up has fans buzzing, particularly because of the contrast it presents. Thanos, who once destroyed worlds to “save” the universe, would now be fighting alongside heroes to protect it from Doom’s ambitions.

Josh Brolin’s Rumored Return as Thanos Sparks New Theory (2)

Thanos’ Redemption: How the MCU Could Make It Work

Thanos’ arc in the MCU so far has been one of consistent villainy, but this return would present a rare opportunity for redemption. Introducing a variant of Thanos who prioritizes balance without extreme measures could offer a fresh perspective on the character. If handled thoughtfully, this shift could lead audiences to see Thanos in a new light, as a character with complex motives and a capacity for good.

“Brolin’s Thanos has always been nuanced,” says Comic Book Resources. “This potential return allows Marvel to show that even the most feared villains have multiple sides.” (Comic Book Resources, 2024)

Read more about the psychological depth of Thanos on Psychology Today’s insights on Marvel villains.

What This Means for Marvel Fans

The idea of Brolin and Downey Jr. reprising their roles as Thanos and Doom, respectively, is thrilling. Both actors are known for bringing depth and gravitas to their characters, and seeing them in a new dynamic would add layers of intrigue to the MCU’s next saga. With the possibility of Thanos returning as a variant willing to fight for the universe’s safety, fans could witness one of Marvel’s most compelling team-ups yet.

This storyline would also allow Marvel to explore the theme of redemption on a grand scale. Thanos, as a character who has done irreparable harm, fighting to prevent Doom’s dominance, could show audiences that even those who seem irredeemable can change.

Potential Roadblocks and Fan Reactions

Of course, there are concerns about bringing back Thanos so soon after Endgame. Some fans worry that the character’s arc was perfectly completed in Endgame, and that revisiting him could dilute the impact of his original storyline. Additionally, without careful planning, the multiverse aspect could become overly complex, confusing casual viewers.

However, fans remain optimistic, as the MCU has a history of weaving complex narratives successfully. The potential for a Thanos variant who values balance and allies with the Avengers offers a promising storyline for fans who have long appreciated Thanos’ depth.

Where Marvel Could Take This Storyline Next

If Marvel decides to bring back Thanos as a variant, this opens doors for other characters to return as well, potentially setting up a full-blown multiverse alliance. This theory could lead to massive crossovers, as heroes and former villains unite against a common threat. Fans can look forward to the possibility of other familiar faces, like Loki or alternate versions of iconic heroes, joining the battle against Doom.

This storyline could also pave the way for a broader exploration of the multiverse’s heroes and villains. If Thanos can have a variant willing to ally with heroes, who else might we see in an unexpected light? The multiverse saga has only just begun, and this theory about Thanos is just one piece of what could be a much larger narrative.

For those curious to see how Marvel may expand on the multiverse theme, head over to Marvel Studios’ official site for the latest updates.

What Are Your Thoughts?

Fans have their own theories and preferences, but what about you? Would you be excited to see Thanos back in a hero’s role? Or do you feel his arc should remain complete? With the future of the MCU wide open, the possibilities for new character interpretations are endless – but only time will tell if Josh Brolin’s Thanos will return in the way fans are imagining.