Anthony Mackie, a well-known American actor, has been a part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe since 2014, playing the character of Sam Wilson, a former Air Force soldier who became Captain America’s ally. He has appeared in several MCU movies, including Avengers: Infinity War(2018) and Avengers: Endgame(2019).
Additionally, he starred in the Disney+ series, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier(2021), which focused on his character’s journey. In the series, Mackie’s Sam Wilson became the new face of Captain America, taking over the mantle from Chris Evans’ Steve Rogers.
Anthony Mackie on becoming the first ever Black Captain America
Anthony Mackie spoke to Screen Rant in an exclusive interview, discussing the importance of his potential portrayal as a Black Captain America, particularly after the tragic death of Chadwick Boseman in 2020. Mackie believes that the character’s significance extends well beyond his role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The actor shared in the interview,
“I think the weight of a Black Captain America is the same as the weight of a woman playing Captain Marvel, which is the same weight as any character of any race representing an underrepresented people – race or sex, I should say.
“We are going through a transitional phase; every 40 to 50 years, something will happen that will turn our country and the world on its axis. We didn’t see 2020 being that, but it just happened to be that. So, the idea of having a Black Captain America, I feel like it’s more gas on that fire to burn down the systematic nonsense that we were brought up in and we lived in up until now. It’s a new day. It’s a new time. Homophobia, racism, sexism is a part of the past, and a part of that system that we can no longer allow to be recognized as our country or our understanding.
“All of it puts us in a position to be better people, to be better parents, and to live a better future. So, I think that’s just part of the fold, if that were to happen.”
Anthony Mackie, who recently took on the role of Captain America in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, has already observed the impact that the character has had on the younger generation, particularly Black children. According to Mackie, a teacher in Homestead, Florida, who works with special needs kids, told him about a student who was doing pull-ups on the monkey bars one day. When the teacher asked the student why, the child responded by saying, “Well, Captain America looks like me now, so I need to get in shape, if he needs my help.” Mackie found this to be the coolest thing and said that it made all the hard work put into the series worthwhile.
Anthony Mackie on bumping into Ben Affleck
Anthony Mackie, the actor who plays the character of Sam Wilson/Falcon in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, recently admitted to having watched Zack Snyder’s Justice League and enjoyed it. In addition, Mackie also disclosed that he shared a friendly rivalry with Ben Affleck, who played Batman in the movie. Mackie recounted a humorous encounter with Affleck that took place at an airport, where he jokingly challenged Affleck to a fight between their respective superhero roles.
During the conversation, Mackie made fun of Affleck’s movie being too long. Affleck confirmed that it was indeed four hours long. Mackie then revealed that he had watched the movie himself and was a fan of it.
Mackie then took the opportunity to challenge Affleck to a fight, saying that he could take him as he was Captain America and Affleck was Batman. Affleck, clearly amused by Mackie’s boldness, responded that Mackie was crazy. However, Mackie insisted that he was serious and encouraged Affleck to accept his challenge.
During a YouTube interview, Anthony Mackie and Sebastian Stan were asked about their thoughts on the release of Zack Snyder’s Justice League, which coincided with the premiere of their show, The Falcon and The Winter Soldier. In response, Mackie jokingly pointed to Stan and said “He’s a little nervous about the Ben Affleck thing.” Mackie then reassured him by saying he would handle Affleck, while Stan could deal with the British kid (referring to Tom Holland as Spider-Man, whose movie was also set to release that year). He playfully invited everyone to meet them on the 16th at 8th avenue at 4 pm to figure it all out.
Anthony Mackie wants to see a Marvel-DC Crossover
Mackie said that he hopes to work with Affleck someday and maybe even collaborate on a crossover between Marvel and DC.
“That would be awesome,” Mackie said. “Imagine Captain America and Batman teaming up to save the world. That would be epic.”
Mackie said that he is looking forward to filming Captain America 4 with Malcolm Spellman and Dalan Musson as writers and possibly Sebastian Stan as his co-star.
“I can’t wait to get back on set and put on the suit again,” Mackie said. “It’s an honor and a privilege to be Captain America. And I’m ready for whatever comes next.”
Anthony Mackie has overcome many obstacles and challenges to earn the trust and respect of his fans and peers. He is not afraid to stand up for what he believes in and to fight for justice and freedom. He is also not afraid to have some fun and joke around with his fellow superheroes, even from rival franchises. He is excited to star in Captain America 4 and to continue his journey as Cap.
Captain America: New World Order is set to release on 3 May 2024.
Source: Variety, YouTube, S The Playlist
