Harrison Ford is set to make his Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) debut as General Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross in Captain America: Brave New World. In the comics, General Ross obsessively pursues the Hulk and eventually transforms into the Red Hulk. Ross is a key figure in the MCU, having appeared in multiple films as a powerful and antagonistic force. Now, Ford takes on the role and is expected to bring his considerable acting gravitas to it.
When asked about taking over the role from the late William Hurt, who portrayed Ross in the MCU, Ford offered some intriguing insights into Red Hulk's future. "The character is established in his overall story, but we’ve brought him to a rather unanticipated conclusion," Ford commented. "In respect to his transformation, it’s a very interesting character dilemma for me because I do not know where Red Hulk goes from here. I do not know where the Hulk goes to get work these days except the Marvel Cinematic Universe and the company of other Hulks, and if I anticipate that there may be an opportunity for old Red to show up again someplace, that brings me nothing but pleasure."
While the ending for Red Hulk in this film seems definitive, Ford's enthusiasm hints that he is open to reprising the role should Marvel Studios offer him the chance, potentially setting up future MCU storylines with him.
Captain America: Brave New World is scheduled for a theatrical release on February 14, 2025. The Julius Onah directorial also stars Anthony Mackie as Captain America, Danny Ramirez as Joaquin Torres/Falcon, Carl Lumbly as Isaiah Bradley, and Tim Blake Nelson as Samuel Sterns/The Leader.