Why Hawkeye left the Avengers to lead the Thunderbolts in Marvel Comics

Hawkeye, the Avengers' archer with a rebellious streak, joined the Thunderbolts because he had been a villain himself. He sympathized with the team's desire to reform, so he left the Avengers and became their leader.

Hawkeye trained the Thunderbolts and rebuilt their image

Hawkeye trained the team to become better heroes while improving their public image. Under his leadership they grew stronger, taking on foes like Crimson Cowl and her new Masters of Evil. His mentorship inspired some, like Moonstone, to change for the better. Others, like the former Beetle, made personal sacrifices to legitimize the team's efforts.

Prison, splits and cosmic threats

Despite their victories, the Thunderbolts faced government conspiracies, battles with Hydra and the tragic loss of team members. Hawkeye even ended up in prison for his technically illegal work with the team. The group splintered and reformed multiple times, even venturing to alternate dimensions. They united to fight cosmic threats, navigated internal conflicts and redefined what it meant to be a hero.