Sebastian Stan: Saved by $65K Residuals Before Winter Soldier Role

Sebastian Stan has shared insights into his career challenges before securing the pivotal role of the Winter Soldier in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. In a candid interview with Vanity Fair, Stan disclosed that he was financially rescued by a $65,000 residuals payment from his role in the 2010 film Hot Tub Time Machine. This payment came at a crucial time as he was struggling to find work. Stan portrayed the character Blaine in the sci-fi comedy before landing the role of James "Bucky" Barnes alongside Chris Evans in Captain America: The First Avenger in 2011.

Reflecting on his situation, Stan stated, "I was actually struggling with work. I had just gotten off the phone with my business manager, who told me I was saved by $65,000 that came in residuals from Hot Tub Time Machine."

Marvel Studios' president, Kevin Feige, expressed his confidence in Stan for the Winter Soldier role, despite Stan being relatively unknown at the time. Feige recounted to Vanity Fair, "You could see that he has so much inside him and so much behind his eyes. I’ll never forget that. I said to Stephen Broussard, who was one of the producers on *Captain America*, 'He’s going to be a good Bucky, but he’s going to be a great Winter Soldier.'"

Stan's portrayal of Bucky Barnes has been a significant part of the MCU, with him reprising the role in subsequent films such as Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014), Captain America: Civil War (2016), various Avengers movies, and the upcoming Captain America: Brave New World. He is also set to appear in the much-anticipated Thunderbolts film next month. Additionally, Stan's name was included in the cast reveal for Avengers: Doomsday, indicating that fans can look forward to seeing more of Bucky in the MCU's future.