Are the Guardians of the Galaxy Also Considered Avengers?

The Guardians of the Galaxy and the Avengers are distinct groups within the Marvel Comics universe but there is some overlap between them. While the Guardians of the Galaxy and Avengers operate as independent teams, the line between the two blurs occasionally. This article explores the history and the potential overlapping membership between these two iconic teams.

Teams in the Marvel Universe

In the Marvel Comics and the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), the Guardians of the Galaxy are primarily a team of intergalactic heroes who focus on cosmic threats. On the other hand, the Avengers are Earth-based heroes who deal with terrestrial and some cosmic threats.

Collaborations and Membership

While the Guardians and Avengers are separate teams, some members of the Guardians have occasionally teamed up with the Avengers in various storylines. For instance, in the comics, members like Star-Lord (Peter Quill), Gamora, and Rocket Raccoon have fought alongside other Avengers, such as Iron Man, Captain America, and Hulk. In the MCU, the Guardians notably collaborate with the Avengers during key events, like the climax of the Avengers: Endgame.

Historical Context in the Comics

Historically, in the comics, individual Guardians have been included in the roster of Avengers. For example, at the end of the Korvac Saga in the late 1970s, every living Avenger, except for the Black Knight, Mantis, and the Hulk, who had been active up to that time, was freed from the Collector's collection. They subsequently joined a battle against Korvac and his wife, Carina. Vance Astro, Charlie 27, Yondu, Nikki Starhawk, and Martinex, the Guardians of the Galaxy, were among those involved. They were made reserve Avengers as a result of this battle.

MCU Specifics

In the MCU, the Avengers and the Guardians of the Galaxy are two separate and independent groups of heroes. The Guardians, who include Star-Lord, Gamora, and Rocket Raccoon, did become reserve Avengers at the end of Avengers: Endgame, but they did not stay with the team. This does not preclude future collaborations, as Thor's next adventure could bring these teams together again.

Avengers' Membership Over Time

The Avengers have a rich and ever-changing history. The roster of heroes who have been part of the team is extensive and ever-changing. Due to the multitude of heroes joining and leaving the team, it’s challenging to determine the exact number of Avengers throughout history. However, during one particular period, a version of the Guardians of the Galaxy was given the honorary status of being part of the Avengers. This group included members such as Yondu Udonta, Martinex T’Naga, Charlie-27, Nichollette Gold, Stakar Ogord, Aleta Ogord, and Vance Astro.

Conclusion

While the Guardians of the Galaxy and the Avengers are separate teams with distinct focuses, members of the Guardians have participated in the Avengers’ ranks, either as honorary members or collaborators. The relationship between these teams is complex, with overlapping membership and occasional collaboration, highlighting the interconnected nature of the Marvel Universe.