Anthony Mackie Confirmed as MCU's Permanent Captain America

Ever since Chris Evans hung up his Captain America shield in Avengers: Endgame, rumors have swirled about his potential return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) as Steve Rogers. Despite his repeated denials and claims of being "happily retired," the speculation persists, fueled by a fundamental aspect of comic book lore: characters rarely stay dead.

In comics, the cycle of death and rebirth is a staple, and Steve Rogers is no exception. His assassination following the 2007 Civil War storyline was a pivotal moment, leading to the temporary passing of the Captain America mantle to Bucky Barnes. However, as is often the case in comics, Rogers was eventually brought back to life, resuming his iconic role.

Years later, another twist saw Rogers' super-soldier serum neutralized, transforming him into an elderly man unable to wield the shield. This led to Sam Wilson, known as The Falcon, stepping up to become the new Captain America—a narrative that set the stage for Anthony Mackie's character to take the lead in Captain America: Brave New World.

Despite Wilson's ascension in the comics, Steve Rogers eventually reclaimed his youthful vigor and returned to his Captain America duties. This recurring theme of original characters returning to their roles fuels the rumors about Chris Evans' potential comeback. Yet, the question remains: Is Anthony Mackie's tenure as Captain America at risk, or is he the MCU's permanent successor?

In a recent interview, Mackie expressed optimism about his role, stating, "I hope so! I think when you look at Sam Wilson, I guess the life or the span of him being Captain America goes with how well the movie does. So go see the movie!" He believes that by the end of Brave New World, audiences will fully accept Sam Wilson as Captain America.

While Mackie may not know the full extent of his character's future, the MCU's narrative suggests a more permanent shift. Unlike the comics, where characters frequently swap mantles, the MCU has demonstrated a greater sense of finality. Villains like Malekith, Kaecilius, and Ego remain dead, suggesting that Steve Rogers' farewell might indeed be permanent.

Nate Moore, a veteran MCU producer, emphasized this point, saying, "We’re aware that, for some people, it’s hard to let go of Steve Rogers. We love Steve Rogers, he’s so fantastic. But I think that by the end of this movie, audiences are going to feel that Sam Wilson is Captain America, full stop."

When asked if Mackie is the MCU's permanent Captain America, Moore was unequivocal: "He is. He is. And we’re so happy to have him." This statement underscores the MCU's intention for Mackie's Sam Wilson to remain Captain America, marking a departure from the revolving door of comic book narratives.

The MCU's approach to permanence adds a layer of stakes and drama not always present in the comics. Characters like Natasha Romanoff, Thanos, and Tony Stark have met definitive ends, and Steve Rogers seems to have followed suit. Julius Onah, director of Captain America: Brave New World, highlighted the significance of this approach, saying, "When Tony Stark dies, that's a big deal. As a storyteller, you're just looking for the best dramatic playground for your actors to bring these characters to life. So it was a real treat for me to be able to [work with Sam’s role] in the MCU."

Onah also expressed excitement about Mackie's future, noting, "It’s going to be exciting to see how he leads the Avengers going forward."

By instilling a sense of permanence in its films, Marvel aims to differentiate the MCU from the cyclical nature of comic books. Nate Moore noted, "I do think [permanent change] does make the MCU feel different than it did in phase one through three. Sam is Captain America, not Steve Rogers. He's a different person. And I think if you ask Sam who would be on the Avengers, it might be a different collection of people than Steve [would suggest]. So the way Sam might go about it could be completely different."

Moore added, "But I think those questions are the questions we have fun with too. Because we want to explore every avenue – much like our fans do – and make sure if and when the time is right for the Avengers to come back, it's an Avengers that feels different, but also is worthy of the Avengers name."

With many original Avengers now retired or deceased, the MCU's next major event promises to be distinct from the Infinity War/Endgame era, widely regarded as the pinnacle of Marvel Studios' work. One thing is certain: Anthony Mackie will be at the forefront, leading the Avengers as the definitive Captain America. After all, Marvel has never been known for misleading fans with casting surprises, right?