Marvel’s Captain America: Brave New World is bringing some major changes to the iconic superhero, and if you haven’t been keeping up with the Marvel Cinematic Universe lately, you might be a bit puzzled by the new direction.
This upcoming film will be the first solo outing for Anthony Mackie as Captain America. He’s taking over the mantle from Chris Evans, who played the role for eight years. Anthony Mackie first appeared in the Marvel franchise in Captain America: The Winter Soldier as Sam Wilson, a skilled Air Force Pararescueman who became friends with Steve Rogers, the original Captain America. Over time, Sam became a key ally and eventually took up the mantle of Captain America himself.
Here’s a quick rundown of how Sam Wilson became the new Captain America:
- Initial Role: Sam joined the Avengers after helping Steve Rogers in The Winter Soldier. By the end of Avengers: Age of Ultron, he was officially part of the superhero team.
- Major Battles: Sam played a significant role in Captain America: Civil War, where he fought alongside Steve Rogers against Tony Stark over the Sokovia Accords, which aimed to regulate the Avengers. The conflict escalated when it was revealed that Bucky Barnes, whom Steve was protecting, was responsible for the deaths of Tony’s parents. This led to a dramatic showdown and the Avengers being fractured.
- Infinity War and Endgame: During Avengers: Infinity War, the Avengers faced Thanos, who succeeded in his plan to eliminate half of all life. Sam, like many others, was “blipped”—turned into dust—only to be resurrected in Avengers: Endgame. After a time-travel mission to gather the Infinity Stones and undo Thanos’ destruction, Steve Rogers decided to stay in the past and live out his life with Peggy Carter, passing his shield to Sam before leaving.
- Falcon and Winter Soldier: In the Disney+ series The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, Sam initially struggles with the responsibility of the Captain America mantle and temporarily gives the shield to the U.S. government. They appoint John Walker, who tarnishes the legacy of Captain America. Realizing he’s the right person for the job, Sam accepts the mantle and takes on a new, more personal approach to being Captain America.
As we head into Captain America: Brave New World, we’ll see Sam Wilson officially take on the role of Captain America under President Thaddeus Ross, played by Harrison Ford. The film’s trailer hints that Sam isn’t thrilled about the idea of being made an official military figure.
Mark your calendars for February 14, 2025, when Captain America: Brave New World hits theaters worldwide as part of Marvel’s Phase Five.
