The Thor: Love & Thunder trailer teases a major role for the Guardians of the Galaxy. Thor Odinson (Chris Hemsworth) has arguably undergone the greatest character journey in the entire MCU, growing from a cocksure prince to being humbled by Thanos (Josh Brolin) as an Avenger. When he was introduced in the first Thor film, his heart's desire was to succeed his father as a war leader for Asgard. In the end, though, Thor tellingly chose to give that up; passing the mantle of leadership on to Valkyrie in Avengers: Endgame.

Thor subsequently left Earth with the Guardians of the Galaxy, although Star-Lord (Chris Pratt) wasn't too pleased about the addition to his ship's roster, given he views God of Thunder to be something of a rival. This has naturally led to intense speculation about the scope of the Guardians' roles in Taika Waititi's Thor: Love & Thunder, as Thor was last seen traveling with them through the stars. Matters have been further complicated by official Marvel merchandise, which describes Thor's new look as "Ravager Thor," suggesting he has either left the Guardians to join a wider group called the Ravagers - or, perhaps, that the Guardians and the Ravagers have joined forces.

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The Thor: Love & Thunder trailer now suggests the Guardians of the Galaxy will play a major role in the film's first act, supporting Thor as he tries to figure out his new role in the galaxy. Thor appears to part ways with the Guardians after this point; however - perhaps due to Peter Quill suggesting he can figure out his existential crisis best by spending time with and "looking into the eyes of" the people Thor loves. This, in turn, seems to cause Thor to head back to New Asgard on Earth and then on a quest with Korg that will surely lead him to confront Thor: Love & Thunder's villain - Gorr the God-Butcher.

Why The Guardians Leave Thor Behind In Love & Thunder Trailer

Thor Love & Thunder Guardians of the Galaxy

It's difficult to say exactly how much time Thor has spent with the Guardians of the Galaxy since Avengers: Endgame, although the trailer appears to suggest he's been away from them training for a while, and it's also possible he's been working with the Ravagers instead. Thus, the Guardians may turn up to give Thor a lift back to Earth, given that the planet's exact coordinates may not be especially well-known. That doesn't necessarily mean the Guardians won't return, though, and it certainly would be appropriate for them to turn up for the third-act battle, surprising Gorr when he realizes some mortals are willing to fight on behalf of the gods he so despises.

Thor: Love & Thunder also marks the first time anyone other than James Gun has written dialogue for the Guardians of the Galaxy. Gunn helped the Russos work on the Guardians scenes for Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame, ensuring the heroes maintained consistent characterization across the course of the MCU. As a result, it will be exciting to see the Guardians handled by Thor: Love & Thunder writer and director Taika Waititi, who will undoubtedly bring his own brand of zany wisecracks to proceedings in the upcoming MCU installment.

More: Why Mjolnir Has Blue Marks & Cracks In Thor: Love & Thunder

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