With the release of MCU’s Captain America: Brave New World just around the corner, leading man Anthony Mackie has sparked controversy regarding comments on what the superhero represents.
Wanting to provide some clarity on the same, the actor took to his Instagram story: “Let me be clear about this, I’m a proud American and taking on the shield of a hero like CAP is the honor of a lifetime. I have the utmost respect for those who serve and have served our country. CAP has universal characteristics that people all over the world can relate to.”
The elucidation comes after Mackie shed light on what he thinks Captain America stands for during a recent event in Rome for the promotion of the film.
The actor said, “For me, Captain America represents a lot of different things & I don’t think the term ‘America’ should be one of those representations. It’s about a man who keeps his word, who has honor, dignity and integrity. Someone who is trustworthy and dependable.”
Anthony Mackie explains what Captain America represents for him:
— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) January 28, 2025
“Captain America represents a lot of different things & I don’t think the term ‘America’ should be one of those representations. It’s about a man who keeps his word, who has honor, dignity and integrity.”
(Source:… pic.twitter.com/d5bvqIbreF
His comment did not sit well with fans, one user commenting on X (formerly Twitter), “Strange take. Captain America literally has America in the name and represents American values of freedom, justice, and standing up for what's right. Why try to separate that? The character's whole origin is tied to WW2 America.”
Many netizens also backed Mackie’s comments, one user writing, “Anthony Mackie is spot-on here. MCU Steve Rogers was never this nationalist guy who was always about America specifically. He's just a guy who hated bullies and valued freedom and integrity. That's what the Captain America mantle is about in the MCU. Being a selfless protector of lives and freedom in a chaotic world of corrupt leaders.”
Captain America: Brave New World will be the first solo film of Mackie’s Sam Wilson aka “The Falcon” as the famed superhero after the mantle was passed on from Chris Evans’ Steve Rogers after Avengers: Endgame. The film is slated to release on February 14, 2025, as part of Phase Five of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
