At a recent press event for their film Death of a Unicorn, Jenna Ortega was caught off-guard by a question related to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). The young actress, renowned for her role in Netflix’s Wednesday, seemed to have a slight lapse in memory regarding her co-star Paul Rudd’s significant role as Ant-Man.
It was during this interaction that Rudd had to remind Ortega of the rather humorous and bizarre “Thanus” theory—an internet meme suggesting Ant-Man could defeat Thanos by expanding inside him.
Paul Rudd, with his characteristic charm, explained the theory to Ortega, which led to an amusing and light-hearted exchange between the two stars. Ortega’s reaction was one of genuine surprise and amusement as she exclaimed, “Oh, that’s right, you’re called Ant-Man!”
This moment highlighted not only the playful chemistry between the actors but also the pervasive influence of meme culture within the MCU fandom.
Paul Rudd’s Expanding Role in the MCU
Despite the comical theories, Paul Rudd’s character, Scott Lang (Ant-Man), has played pivotal roles in the MCU, particularly noted for his contribution to the plot of Avengers: Endgame.
With the upcoming Avengers: Secret Wars, questions are arising about how Ant-Man and his partner, The Wasp, will be integrated into the storyline, especially considering the dynamics have shifted with new antagonists like Doctor Doom.
Rudd’s Ant-Man, known for his quirky and strategic use of size manipulation, brought a unique element to the Avengers’ strategy to undo the catastrophic Snap by Thanos. However, with Kang the Conqueror already dealt with by Loki, Scott Lang’s previous knowledge might seem redundant.
Yet, fans speculate whether The Wasp, played by Evangeline Lily—who has been relatively underutilized in the past—might see her role significantly expanded in the new saga.
The Wasp’s Potential Leadership in the New Avengers
The inclusion of The Wasp is particularly intriguing considering her historical significance in the comics as one of the founding members of the Avengers.
Her potential leadership could breathe new life into the narrative, positioning her alongside Ant-Man as essential figures in the reassembled team of heroes. This dynamic could pave the way for integrating other iconic groups like the X-Men and the Fantastic Four into the MCU, expanding the universe even further.
The Marvel Cinematic Universe continues to evolve, integrating meme culture and fan theories into its expansive storytelling arc. Jenna Ortega’s candid moment with Paul Rudd over the “Thanus” theory not only provided a humorous interlude but also reminded fans of the lighter, more personable aspects of these beloved characters.