With “Thunderbolts” taking the box office by storm, it serves as a reminder that first impressions can often be misleading. Currently, this film is not only raking in impressive revenue but is also among the highest-grossing movies globally. Fans know that every Marvel film carries surprises hidden within its narrative, and “Thunderbolts” is no exception. As we focus on the likes of Red Guardian, Yelena, Walker, and Bob, a subtle but intriguing detail about Mel suggests the potential introduction of Songbird, a character from the comics. Let’s dive deeper into this fascinating connection.
Who Plays Mel in Thunderbolts?

Geraldine Viswanathan brings Mel to life in “Thunderbolts.” Originally slated for Ayo Edebiri, known for her role in The Bear, scheduling conflicts paved the way for Viswanathan’s MCU debut.
What Is Mel’s Role in Marvel’s Thunderbolts?
In the film, Mel serves as Valentina’s assistant, admired for her skill in acquiring the “perfect cup of coffee” no matter the chaos around them. Initially devoted, Mel’s faith in Valentina wanes as she witnesses Val’s reckless obsession with the Sentry Project.
Eventually, Mel takes a stand by helping Bucky confront Valentina, yet her actions come too late. Although Mel isn’t framed as a superhero, her contributions prove essential. Fans suspect there’s more to Mel than appears and this notion is generating buzz.
Theories Suggest Mel Could Be MCU’s Songbird

Fans of Marvel comics are quick to notice that the cinematic version of the Thunderbolts differs significantly from the original team. However, many believe that Mel could be a fresh interpretation of Songbird, whose comic book name is Melissa Gold.
Fans spotted hints suggesting Mel’s deeper significance. For instance, “Mel” could easily be a shorthand for “Melissa.” Additionally, observant viewers noted that Mel sports a bird necklace, hinting at a potential transformation into Songbird.
Geraldine Viswanathan herself addressed these speculations in a conversation with Collider. She describes Mel as a regular person faced with ethical dilemmas and how her situation resonates with audiences.
“It felt very clear what to track, and it was really just about that internal struggle… she ends up driving a lot of the plot.” – Geraldine Viswanathan
The ambiguity surrounding Mel’s future keeps fans speculating. While theories abound regarding her evolution into Songbird, Viswanathan’s comments add intrigue, especially since Marvel is notorious for keeping secrets about their projects.
There’s potential for Mel to acquire abilities similar to Bob’s, but for now, this remains a captivating theory.
Will Mel Appear as Songbird in Avengers: Doomsday?
The pivotal question remains: will Mel develop her powers before appearing in “Avengers: Doomsday” as Songbird? With the Thunderbolts transitioning into the New Avengers, her assistance is certainly feasible, especially considering her alliance with Bucky in “Thunderbolts.” Furthermore, the cast reveal for “Avengers: Doomsday” is still incomplete, leaving room for Mel’s potential inclusion.
Curious about how Marvel weaves its characters together? Keep exploring the universe and the connections between its heroes and villains. For more insights and updates, visit Moyens I/O.