The SAG-AFTRA delays continue to do a number on Marvel’s Thunderbolts, which is gearing up to start production soon. Ayo Edibiri is the latest to depart the villain film due to scheduling conflicts, and Deadline reports her replacement has already been found. Blockers and The Broken Hearts Gallery star Geraldine Viswanathan has stepped into the open role, which remains a mystery.
This is the second such casting move in recent days, as Lewis Pullman was added to replace Steven Yeun who had also left due to scheduling issues.
Viswanathan joins an ensemble that includes Florence Pugh as Yelena Belova, Sebastian Stan as Winter Soldier, Harrison Ford as General Thunderbolt Ross, David Harbour as Red Guardian, Julia Louis-Dreyfus as Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, Wyatt Russell as US Agent, Hannah John-Kamen as Ghost and Olga Kurylenko as Taskmaster.
So one thing we can surmise is that Viswanathan’s role is a funny one, because she’s replacing Edibiri who is also known for her comedy chops. She had been rumored for the Ms. Marvel role that ultimately went to Iman Vellani, but now she’s officially under the Marvel umbrella.
Thunderbolts is expected to open in July 2025, directed by Jake Schreier. Coming up for Viswanathan is Ethan Coen’s Drive-Away Dolls opposite Margaret Qualley, and comedy You’re Cordially Invited with Will Ferrell and Reese Witherspoon.
