Paul Rudd Questions ‘Thanus’ Theory’s Viability Against Thanos

LOS ANGELES, CA — Actor Paul Rudd recently expressed skepticism about the infamous ‘Thanus’ theory during an interview to promote his new film, Death of a Unicorn. The theory, which suggests that Rudd’s character, Ant-Man, could have entered the body of the villain Thanos and expanded to defeat him, has sparked significant discussion among Marvel fans since its inception.

In a conversation with ComicBook, Rudd reflected on the theory that gained popularity during the buildup to Avengers: Infinity War in 2017. ‘I often wonder, though, could he really have stopped Thanos in that way? Because didn’t he, at that point, have the Space Stone or whatever?’ Rudd questioned, raising concerns about whether Thanos could have thwarted Ant-Man’s unconventional approach with the powers of the Infinity Stones.

Co-star Jenna Ortega, who stars alongside Rudd in Death of a Unicorn, appeared perplexed by the concept. Rudd attempted to clarify, saying, ‘Do you know what we’re talking about? There was a theory — instead of Thanos, it was ‘Thanus.’ He would go up Thanos and then expand.’ Ortega humorously interjected, ‘I thought he was already big… the purple one?’ emphasizing her unfamiliarity with the theory.

As the actors promote their film, which releases in theaters on March 28, 2025, Rudd’s contemplations on the ‘Thanus’ theory continue to captivate audiences. His character Scott Lang must confront different villains, including Doctor Doom in the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday. Unlike Thanos, who was ultimately defeated in Avengers: Endgame, the particulars of Doom’s weaknesses are yet to be determined.

Rudd humorously revisited the origins of the theory, noting the speculative nature of fan discussions. ‘There was a theory — what if Ant-Man just did this to Thanos…’ he continued, miming the actions for Ortega. ‘It’s unlikely that Rudd’s Ant-Man will ever have the chance to test the ‘Thanus’ theory given that the Mad Titan, portrayed by Josh Brolin, was killed in Avengers: Endgame.’

Despite the humorous premise of the ‘Thanus’ theory, several aspects suggest it may not hold up in the realm of comic logic. Rudd himself previously termed the concept ‘gross’ during a discussion aboard a Disney Cruise. He questioned why fans often fixate on one particular entry point and remarked, ‘Why not the ear or the nose?’

Moreover, one of the writers of Avengers: Endgame, Christopher Markus, also shot down the theory by pointing to Thanos’ formidable physical strength. ‘Thanos could take a punch from the Hulk, we’ve seen that. If Ant-Man expanded, he would be simply crushed against the immovable walls of Thanos’ mighty rectum,’ Markus noted, underpinning the improbability of the scenario.

As audiences prepare for the release of Death of a Unicorn, which features Rudd as a father dealing with unintended consequences after hitting a unicorn, fans will continue to debate the practicality of the ‘Thanus’ theory while anticipating future Marvel storylines.