We all know that the Marvel Cinematic Universe thrives on curveballs, but what happens when they throw one and forget to catch it? For example, Thunderbolts*—a film that’s making headlines for not all the good reasons, particularly when it comes to Olga Kurylenko’s Taskmaster. The mute assassin, known for mimicking any fighting style she witnesses, should have been an absolute powerhouse in the MCU. But instead, she’s been relegated to the role of a shadow.

Fans are buzzing. The recent teaser for Thunderbolts* has added fuel to the fire, with the conspicuous absence of Taskmaster in key group shots, leaving many to speculate about her fate. Could Sentry be sending Taskmaster six feet under before the credits even roll? Or is this a grand sleight of hand designed to keep us guessing?

Taskmaster’s ominous absence in Thunderbolts* trailer sparks theories of early demise Taskmaster in...