Is Anthony Mackie the MCU's Permanent Captain America?

Since Chris Evans hung up his Captain America shield in Avengers: Endgame, rumors of his return as Steve Rogers have persisted. He’s repeatedly denied them, claiming retirement. However, these rumors stem from a key difference between the MCU and comic books: in comics, nobody truly stays dead.

Death and resurrection are common comic book tropes. Steve Rogers’ death in the 2007 Civil War storyline was a major event, leading to Bucky Barnes taking up the mantle temporarily. Rogers' eventual return, followed by another storyline where his super-soldier serum was neutralized, making him an elderly man, and Sam Wilson becoming Captain America, highlights this cyclical nature. This comic book arc directly influenced the MCU's Captain America: Brave New World, starring Anthony Mackie as Sam Wilson.

Years later, even in the comics, Steve Rogers was rejuvenated, resuming his role. This pattern, mirrored by characters like Batman, Spider-Man, and Green Lantern, fuels speculation about Chris Evans' return. But is Anthony Mackie's Captain America position truly at risk?

“I hope so!” Mackie stated in a recent interview. “I think the longevity of Sam Wilson as Captain America depends on the film's success. So, go see the movie!”

Mackie’s chances of a longer tenure seem better than Sebastian Stan’s (Bucky Barnes). While Bucky's comic book tenure ended, Steve Rogers' return saw them share the mantle, both wielding the shield. Even if Chris Evans returns in future Avengers films, Mackie's position is strong.

However, the MCU differs from the comics. The MCU emphasizes permanence; deaths generally remain permanent. This creates higher stakes. Natasha Romanoff, Thanos, and Tony Stark are gone. Steve Rogers is, quite simply, too old.

“We’re aware some find it hard to let go of Steve Rogers,” says Nate Moore, producer of Captain America: Brave New World. “But by the end, audiences will feel Sam Wilson *is* Captain America.” Moore confirms: “He is. He is. And we’re so happy to have him.”

Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson is the MCU's Captain America. This permanence adds a different dynamic; there’s no easy return. The stakes are higher. This is highlighted by Julius Onah, director of Captain America: Brave New World: “When Tony Stark dies, that's a big deal… it was a real treat to work with Sam’s role in the MCU.” Onah anticipates Sam's leadership of the Avengers.

By establishing permanence, Marvel avoids the cyclical nature of the comics. Moore explains, “Sam is Captain America, not Steve Rogers. He's different. The Avengers he'd assemble might differ from Steve's. His approach would be unique.” This creates exciting possibilities for future Avengers installments.

With many original Avengers sidelined, the MCU's next major event will differ from the Infinity War/Endgame era. Anthony Mackie will be central, leading the Avengers as the sole Captain America. Marvel's commitment to this narrative suggests no casting surprises are planned.