Wyatt Russell has become a household name in Hollywood, thanks to his captivating performances and undeniable charisma. In 2025, the actor is making waves with his roles in major films, sparking excitement among fans and critics alike. From his action-packed return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) to a heartfelt performance in a contemporary Western, Russell’s versatility is on full display. Here’s why his 2025 movie roles are generating so much buzz.
Thunderbolts*: A Standout in the MCU’s New Avengers
Wyatt Russell reprises his role as John Walker, also known as U.S. Agent, in Thunderbolts (released May 2, 2025), which Marvel Studios has officially rebranded as The New Avengers. The film, directed by Jake Schreier, features a team of misfit anti-heroes, including Florence Pugh as Yelena Belova, Sebastian Stan as Bucky Barnes, and David Harbour as Red Guardian. Russell’s portrayal of John Walker, a complex and morally ambiguous character, has been a highlight, earning praise for adding depth to the MCU’s latest blockbuster.
In Thunderbolts, John Walker is described as a “dime store Captain America,” a nod to his controversial stint as the super-soldier in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier (2021). Fans have lauded Russell’s ability to bring nuance to the character, balancing insecurity with strength. The movie’s mature tone and focus on mental health, combined with its action-packed sequences, have made it a refreshing hit, grossing $31.5 million on its opening day alone. Russell’s performance has solidified his place in the MCU, with fans eagerly discussing his character’s evolution on social media platforms like X.
Broke: A Gritty Western Drama
Beyond the superhero genre, Russell stars in Broke, a contemporary Western drama released digitally on May 6, 2025. Directed by Carlyle Eubank, the film follows True Brandywine, a bareback bronc rider facing the end of his career and a life-threatening blizzard. Co-starring Dennis Quaid as his estranged father, Russell delivers a raw and emotional performance that critics have called “endearing” and “compelling.”
Broke stands out for its grounded storytelling and focus on human struggles, with Russell’s portrayal of True Brandywine earning acclaim for its authenticity. The film’s intense scenes, including a dramatic confrontation between Russell and Quaid, have resonated with audiences, making it a must-watch for fans of character-driven dramas. Its digital release has made it accessible to a wide audience, further fueling buzz around Russell’s range as an actor.
Avengers: Doomsday – What’s Next for John Walker?
Fans are also buzzing about Russell’s confirmed return as John Walker in Avengers: Doomsday, set to hit theaters on December 18, 2026. While details about his role remain under wraps—Russell himself admitted in a May 2025 interview that he hasn’t read the script yet—he hinted that his character will undergo another transformation. “The John Walker I played in Falcon and the Winter Soldier in 2020 is completely different from the guy in Thunderbolts, and I think will be completely different again in Avengers: Doomsday,” Russell shared. This evolution has fans speculating about how Walker will fit into the star-studded MCU film, which promises to be a major cinematic event.
A Spielberg Sci-Fi Mystery
Adding to the excitement, Russell is part of a top-secret Steven Spielberg sci-fi project, reportedly centered around a UFO theme. Co-starring Emily Blunt, Colman Domingo, and Josh O’Connor, the film is described as a “love letter to humanity.” Russell has praised Spielberg’s ability to bring out the best in his actors, hinting at a unique and impactful role. While little is known about the project, the combination of Russell’s talent and Spielberg’s visionary direction has fans eagerly awaiting more details.
Why Wyatt Russell’s 2025 Roles Are a Big Deal
Wyatt Russell’s 2025 movie roles showcase his ability to tackle diverse genres, from superhero blockbusters to introspective dramas and mysterious sci-fi projects. His performances in Thunderbolts and Broke have already cemented his status as a versatile leading man, while his upcoming roles in Avengers: Doomsday and Spielberg’s untitled film promise even more excitement. Fans on X are buzzing about his ability to bring depth to complex characters, with posts highlighting his standout moments in Thunderbolts and anticipation for his future projects.
With a packed slate and a growing fanbase, Wyatt Russell is proving he’s more than just the son of Hollywood icons Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn. He’s a star in his own right, and 2025 is shaping up to be his biggest year yet. Keep an eye on this rising talent as he continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
