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 are fueled by a key difference between the MCU and comic books: in comics, no one truly stays dead.

Death and rebirth are common in comics. Steve Rogers' death in the 2007 Civil War storyline was a major event, leading to Bucky Barnes taking up the mantle. This, however, proved temporary, as Rogers was eventually resurrected. Later, his super-soldier serum was neutralized, making him an elderly man, and Sam Wilson (The Falcon) became Captain America. This storyline mirrors the MCU's transition to Anthony Mackie as Captain America in Brave New World.

Years later, in the comics, Steve Rogers' aging was reversed, and he resumed his role. Similar storylines involving characters like Batman, Spider-Man, and Green Lantern explain the persistence of rumors about Chris Evans' return. The original always seems to come back.

Anthony Mackie, in a recent interview, expressed hope for Sam Wilson's continued role as Captain America, stating its success depends on the film's performance. He believes audiences will accept Sam Wilson *as* Captain America.

Mackie's position seems more secure than Sebastian Stan's ever was. While Bucky's tenure ended in the comics, Steve and Sam later shared the Captain America mantle. Even if Chris Evans returns in future Avengers films, Mackie has a strong chance of retaining the title.

However, the MCU differs from the comics. The MCU emphasizes permanence; deaths generally stay permanent. This contrasts with the cyclical nature of comic book deaths and resurrections. Steve Rogers' departure seems final.

MCU producer Nate Moore confirms Anthony Mackie *is* the MCU's Captain America, emphasizing the studio's commitment to this decision. Director Julius Onah highlights the dramatic opportunities presented by Sam Wilson's role and his future leadership of the Avengers.

This sense of permanence distinguishes the MCU. The stakes are higher; there's no easy return. Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson is Captain America, a role designed without a replacement. The future Avengers will be different, reflecting Sam's leadership.