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Clayton Cooper Shines in Marvel’s ‘Thunderbolts’

Scene from Thunderbolts featuring a young actor in dynamic action.

News Summary

Charleston’s own Clayton Cooper delivers a remarkable performance as young Bob Reynolds, aka The Sentry, in Marvel’s latest film ‘Thunderbolts’. His role showcases the complexities of childhood trauma while highlighting his emotional range at just thirteen. Cooper’s work on set, including collaboration with a stunt team and thoughtful gestures, demonstrates his dedication to the craft. The film features an impressive cast and explores the duality of The Sentry’s character. As audiences flock to theaters, Cooper’s rising star is set to blaze a trail in Hollywood.

Charleston – Local actor, Clayton Cooper, made his mark in the film industry with a significant role in Marvel’s latest movie, “Thunderbolts”, which hit theaters on May 2, 2025. The film, part of the expansive Marvel Cinematic Universe, features a star-studded cast including Sebastian Stan, Hannah John-Kamen, Florence Pugh, Wyatt Russell, and David Harbour.

Thirteen-year-old Cooper portrays the childhood version of Bob Reynolds, also known as The Sentry, whose character is complex, displaying both human vulnerabilities and extraordinary powers. The adult version of The Sentry is played by actor Lewis Pullman. Cooper’s role required him to delve into the character’s backstory, exploring the childhood trauma that shapes Bob Reynolds into the man he becomes.

Cooper’s performance has been described as emotionally raw and impactful, showcasing his ability to tackle challenging material at such a young age. His portrayal of Bob’s early life involved a pivotal scene with his on-screen parents that necessitated extensive rehearsals, eliciting emotional reactions from both the cast and crew. In a noteworthy collaboration, actress Julia Louis-Dreyfus, who plays Valentina Allegra de la Fontaine, appeared in a scene with Cooper, though it ultimately did not make the final cut of the film.

The production took place in Atlanta, where Cooper worked on set for three days. During his time there, he collaborated with a stunt team for a scene that was ultimately removed from the film. Notably, Cooper demonstrated his thoughtfulness by creating and distributing custom bracelets to his fellow cast and crew members, which earned him a handwritten thank you note from Louis-Dreyfus for his kind gesture.

Before landing this role, Cooper had auditioned for various Marvel projects, which he described as being typically secretive, often leaving him unaware of the project until its release. His audition for “Thunderbolts” was especially unique; he was cast based on his initial tape submission without the need for a callback, highlighting his impressive skills and first impression.

Cooper’s journey in acting began early in his life. He started modeling as a toddler and has since appeared in numerous commercials, including well-known brands like Disney World and Google. He garnered attention in the theater scene with his leading role in Charleston Stage‘s production of “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever”. His experiences in both theater and film have fueled his passion for building relationships and collaborating creatively with others in the industry.

In addition to Cooper’s powerful portrayal in “Thunderbolts”, the film brings to the screen intricate aspects of The Sentry’s character. The narrative not only centers on his superhuman capabilities but also addresses his destructive alter ego known as The Void, further emphasizing Cooper’s role in unraveling the complexities of this iconic superhero.

As audiences flock to theaters to witness the latest chapter in the Marvel saga, Clayton Cooper’s contribution to “Thunderbolts” ensures that the spotlight shines on the remarkable talent emerging from Charleston. His ability to convey deep emotional narratives and connect with co-stars promises a bright future in acting as he continues to grow and develop his skills in the competitive entertainment industry.