Marvel Forced to Rename The Avengers Due to Warner Bros’ Sci-fi Movie
SUMMARY
• ‘The Avengers’ (2012) was called ‘Avengers Assemble’ in the United Kingdom and Ireland.
• This was done to avoid confusion with an old British TV series titled ‘The Avengers’ and its 1998 film adaptation.
• Marvel Studios boss Kevin Feige once opened up about the name change.
Marvel Studios faced a unique challenge when it came to naming one of their most iconic films, The Avengers. While the film is known worldwide by its original title, in the United Kingdom and Ireland, it was released as Avengers Assemble. But why did Marvel make this change?
The reason behind the title change dates back to an old British television series called The Avengers, which aired from 1961 to 1969. The series, centered around espionage and secret agents, featured characters like David Keel and John Steed. In 1998, Warner Bros. released a film adaptation of the series, starring Uma Thurman and Ralph Fiennes. However, the film failed to impress both critics and audiences, making only $48 million at the box office.
To avoid any confusion with the existing TV series and film, Marvel decided to rename their superhero flick in the UK. Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige shed some light on the decision during a press conference, revealing that extensive marketing research went into the rebranding process.
Despite the name change, The Avengers (or Avengers Assemble) remains a fan favorite and a crucial part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Fans can still enjoy the film on Disney+ and marvel at the epic collaboration of Earth’s mightiest heroes.