Editor’s note: This article contains spoilers for Thunderbolts*.

If you remained in your seat during the end credits of Thunderbolts*, you experienced one of the most significant and extended post-credits scenes in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) to date. The sudden appearance of a spacecraft adorned with a massive “4” captured the audience’s attention, hinting at exciting future developments. However, amidst the buzz surrounding this revelation, a pressing question arises for fans intrigued by the enigmatic operations of Valentina Allegra de Fontaine: Where is Mel? This question has sparked discussions and theories among the viewer community.

Portrayed by the talented Geraldine Viswanathan, Mel quickly emerged as one of the most captivating new characters in Thunderbolts*. As Valentina’s strategically astute assistant, Mel’s loyalty appears questionable, suggesting she may have her own agenda. Operating from the shadows, she deftly influences crucial events throughout the film, resembling a classic sleeper agent. When the Thunderbolts team finds themselves in Avengers Tower—now rebranded as the “Watchtower”—and interacts with what seems to be the Fantastic Four, it raises an intriguing question: Is Mel merely offscreen, or has she been intentionally sidelined? According to Viswanathan, Mel is very much part of the action and has even secured her own office space.

In an engaging conversation with Perri Nemiroff for Collider Ladies Night, Viswanathan confirmed that Mel is present in the tower during that pivotal post-credits moment.

“She is. Yep. She’s got a little office. She’s got a little coffee machine in there. She’s stepping up. She has a little view. But she’s still striving.”

Discover the Role of Mel in ‘Thunderbolts*’

This single quote provides vital insight into Mel’s current position within the storyline. It reveals that she continues to operate within Valentina’s inner circle, contrary to speculations that she might have been ousted or eliminated due to her morally ambiguous decisions, especially regarding her dealings with Sebastian Stan‘s Bucky Barnes, where she provided crucial information about the Thunderbolts’ whereabouts early in the film.

Moreover, it hints at her rising status within the organization—indicating that she is gradually climbing the ranks of command, albeit still not in a position of full control. There’s a palpable sense of ambition in her character. That coffee she brews? It likely meets Valentina’s exacting standards, showcasing Mel’s commitment to playing the long game. If you’ve watched the movie, you’ll know that Mel has an uncanny ability to whip up the perfect coffee, no matter the circumstances.

During the same interview, Viswanathan elaborated on Mel’s aspirations within the organization. When asked what “making it” would mean for her character, she expressed: “Just calling the shots, pressing buttons, getting off the damn phone, and not getting coffees for people. I think just having a say, making decisions, making calls. Whatever that position is.”

Thunderbolts* is currently showing in theaters. For more insights, check out Viswanathan’s complete episode of Collider Ladies Night linked above.