Anthony Mackie is New MCU Captain America

Since Chris Evans retired his Captain America shield in Avengers: Endgame, persistent rumors suggest he might reprise his role as Steve Rogers. Despite Evans stating he's "happily retired," speculation continues—fuelled by comic book tradition where resurrection is commonplace.

The Revolving Door of Captain America

The comic book world thrives on death and rebirth, and Steve Rogers exemplifies this cycle. His assassination following Marvel's 2007 Civil War arc marked a pivotal moment, temporarily passing the shield to Bucky Barnes. Later, when Rogers aged prematurely, Sam Wilson (Falcon) took the mantle—mirroring Anthony Mackie's MCU journey toward Captain America: Brave New World.

Yet Rogers inevitably reclaimed his role—just as Batman, Spider-Man, and other heroes often do. So does Mackie's tenure face uncertainty?

MCU vs. Comics: A Different Kind of Legacy

"I hope so!" Mackie told us regarding his permanent status. "It depends on how well Brave New World performs." He believes audiences will ultimately embrace Sam Wilson as Captain America "full stop."

Unlike the comics—where Bucky's Captain America stint ended—the MCU may forge its own path. Producers hint at permanence: Villains like Thanos don’t revive, and heroes like Tony Stark stay gone. As Nate Moore, producer of Brave New World, confirms: "Sam Wilson is Captain America, period."

"The MCU thrives on stakes," director Julius Onah notes. "When Tony died, it mattered." That weight extends to leadership—Sam Wilson isn’t Steve Rogers, and his Avengers may evolve differently.

The MCU avoids comics' cyclical resets—Natasha Romanoff stays dead, Tony Stark remains gone—making Mackie’s Captain America pivotal for future Avengers stories. Even if Evans returns in Avengers: Secret Wars, Mackie’s role seems secure.

"The MCU isn't stuck repeating itself," Moore adds. "Sam brings fresh perspective—his Avengers roster may surprise fans." With original heroes gone, Mackie’s Captain America will anchor the franchise—unless Marvel pulls an unexpected twist.