Ever since Chris Evans hung up his Captain America shield in Avengers: Endgame, rumors have swirled about his potential return as Steve Rogers. Despite repeatedly denying these rumors and claiming he's "happily retired," the speculation persists, fueled by the comic book tradition where characters rarely stay dead.
In the comics, death and rebirth are common themes, and Steve Rogers is no exception. His assassination following the 2007 Civil War storyline was a pivotal moment, leading to Bucky Barnes taking up the mantle of Captain America. However, this change was temporary, and Rogers was eventually brought back to life, reclaiming his iconic role.
Years later, another twist saw Steve's super-soldier serum neutralized, turning him into a frail old man. This time, Sam Wilson, aka The Falcon, stepped in as the new Captain America, a narrative that laid the groundwork for Anthony Mackie's portrayal in the MCU's Captain America: Brave New World.
Image credit: Marvel Studios
Despite Wilson taking the helm as Captain America in the comics, Steve's aging was later reversed, and he returned to his duties. This pattern of returning original characters is common across various comic book series, including Batman, Spider-Man, and Green Lantern, fueling the persistent rumors about Evans' return.
Anthony Mackie, when asked about his role's longevity, expressed optimism but tied it to the success of Brave New World: "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 audiences will see Sam Wilson as the definitive Captain America by the film's end.
While Mackie may not know his character's ultimate fate, the MCU has shown a commitment to a sense of permanence not always seen in the comics. When villains die in the films, they typically stay dead, suggesting that Steve Rogers' departure might be final.
Nate Moore, a veteran MCU producer, acknowledges the difficulty some fans have in letting go of Steve Rogers but affirms that Sam Wilson is Captain America, period. "He is. He is. And we're so happy to have him," Moore stated, emphasizing Mackie's permanent role.
Image credit: Marvel Studios
The MCU's approach to storytelling, with higher stakes and more permanent changes, sets it apart from its comic book origins. Key characters like Natasha Romanoff, Thanos, and Tony Stark have faced irreversible fates, and Steve Rogers seems to have joined their ranks, too old to return to action.
Julius Onah, director of Captain America: Brave New World, highlighted the dramatic potential of Sam's role, expressing excitement about how he will lead the Avengers moving forward.
With the original Avengers largely out of action, the MCU's next major event promises to be a departure from the Infinity War/Endgame era. One thing is clear: Anthony Mackie will be at the forefront, leading the Avengers as the definitive Captain America.
AnswerSee ResultsBy embracing permanent change, the MCU aims to differentiate itself from the cyclical nature of comics, ensuring that Sam Wilson remains Captain America, bringing a fresh perspective to the role and the Avengers. As the MCU evolves, fans can look forward to seeing how Mackie's Captain America shapes the future of this iconic team.
