Anthony Mackie, the talented actor known for bringing Sam Wilson to life in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), is preparing to don the iconic red, white, and blue shield as the titular hero in Captain America: Brave New World. This milestone marks a significant shift in the MCU, as Mackie’s Captain America will be the first to assume the role without the Super Soldier Serum—a fundamental aspect of Steve Rogers’ origin story.
In an era where superheroes are often defined by their superhuman abilities, Mackie’s portrayal promises to break away from convention. Speaking about the challenges of playing a hero without enhanced abilities, Mackie shared, “It’s very different with the serum — you can fight anybody. When you don’t have the serum, you have to be smart and engineer different ways of defeating [enemies].”
This new take on Captain America emphasizes intelligence, strategy, and empathy over brute force. “With Sam, him being a counselor, he uses more of his brains than brawn,” Mackie explained. “He uses more of his wit than his fist. He’s more of a friend to everyone.”
A Captain America for a New Era
Sam Wilson’s journey to becoming Captain America has been a significant focus of the MCU’s recent narrative. After Steve Rogers passed the shield to Sam at the conclusion of Avengers: Endgame, the Disney+ series The Falcon and the Winter Soldier explored Sam’s internal conflict about taking on the mantle. That journey culminates in Brave New World, where audiences will see Sam fully embrace the responsibility and legacy of Captain America.
What sets Sam apart is his humanity. Unlike his predecessors, he doesn’t rely on superhuman strength or endurance to overcome obstacles. Instead, his years of experience as a counselor and his commitment to understanding others make him a hero rooted in reality.
Mackie acknowledged the unique challenges of stepping into such a role. “When you don’t have the serum, it’s not just about physical fights; it’s about mental battles too. You have to be smarter and more resourceful to win,” he said. This perspective opens up a fresh avenue for storytelling, bringing audiences a grounded, relatable Captain America who triumphs through ingenuity and heart.
A Suit from Wakanda
Another element that sets Sam’s Captain America apart is his high-tech suit, designed and gifted by the technologically advanced nation of Wakanda. The suit, first revealed in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, is not only visually stunning but also a functional marvel. It allows Sam to incorporate his aerial combat skills as The Falcon into his new role as Captain America.
Wakanda’s contribution to Sam’s transformation emphasizes the interconnectedness of the MCU and its heroes. The suit symbolizes a union of legacy and innovation, blending the heritage of Captain America with Wakanda’s cutting-edge technology.
For Mackie, the suit represents more than just a tool for battle. It’s a reflection of how far Sam has come and the alliances he has forged. It also underscores the idea that a hero doesn’t need to be born with powers—they can be equipped, trained, and supported by their community.
Mackie’s Love for the Hulk and Late Comic Book Introduction
Despite his impressive contributions to the MCU, Mackie revealed an unconventional relationship with comic books. “A lot of people might not like this, but I’ve never read comics,” he admitted. “I’ve watched every cartoon, like everything from Tom and Jerry to Teen Titans—if you haven’t watched Teen Titans, that’s my favorite cartoon.”
Mackie’s love for animated storytelling brings a unique perspective to his approach as Captain America. His favorite superhero? The Incredible Hulk. “There’s something so fascinating about his duality and how he represents the rage within all of us,” Mackie shared. This admiration for the Hulk’s complexity seems to echo in Mackie’s portrayal of Sam Wilson, who also grapples with his inner struggles while carrying the weight of being a symbol of hope and justice.
Staying True to the Captain America Legacy
While Sam Wilson’s Captain America may not have the serum or Steve Rogers’ physical prowess, Mackie assured fans that the upcoming film will honor the spirit of the franchise. “With the Captain America stories, it has always been the realistic, grounding world. This movie stays in line with the original Captain America—of that thrill, of that espionage, of that grounded nature with storytelling, and really investing the actual audience into the story.”
This commitment to realism is a hallmark of the Captain America films, from The First Avenger to The Winter Soldier. Fans can expect Brave New World to continue this tradition, blending action-packed sequences with an emotionally resonant narrative that connects with viewers on a personal level.
The Evolution of the MCU’s Captain America
Mackie’s journey to becoming Captain America is more than a story of passing the shield; it’s a reflection of the MCU’s evolving landscape. By introducing a Captain America without superpowers, Marvel is redefining what it means to be a hero. Sam Wilson’s emphasis on diplomacy, empathy, and strategy brings a refreshing perspective to the role, making him a Captain America for modern times.
As Mackie prepares to take center stage in Brave New World, fans are eager to see how this new iteration of the character will navigate the challenges ahead. With his high-tech suit, his unique approach to heroism, and his ability to connect with people on a human level, Sam Wilson’s Captain America is poised to make a lasting impact in the MCU.
Anthony Mackie’s portrayal of Sam Wilson as Captain America is more than just a continuation of a legacy; it’s a reimagining of what a superhero can be. In Brave New World, audiences will witness a grounded, relatable hero who overcomes obstacles through intelligence, resourcefulness, and empathy.
As Mackie himself said, “He’s more of a friend to everyone.” That sentiment lies at the heart of what makes Sam Wilson’s Captain America unique—a hero who understands the value of connection and the power of humanity. With Brave New World, Marvel is not just introducing a new Captain America; it’s shaping a legacy for generations to come.