In a heartfelt gesture marking a new chapter in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Anthony Mackie has revealed that Chris Evans, the original Captain America, congratulated him on his recent film, Captain America: Brave New World. Released on February 14, 2025, the film features Mackie stepping into the iconic role that Evans held for nearly a decade.
Following the events of Avengers: Endgame, where Evans’ character, Steve Rogers, passed the Captain America shield to Mackie’s Sam Wilson, fans have eagerly awaited the new direction of the beloved franchise. Mackie’s portrayal of Wilson has been widely anticipated, especially after he officially took on the mantle of Captain America in the finale of the Disney+ series, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier.
In an interview with E! News, Mackie shared the touching moment when Evans reached out to him after watching the new film. "I haven't talked to him. I just got a text from him saying 'good job' and that he loved the movie," Mackie said. He noted that despite not having met Evans in a long time, they remain in contact, although both have been busy with their respective projects.
Evans, who has been working in Europe, has not yet returned to the MCU in any official capacity since his retirement after eight films. His departure from the role left a significant impact on fans and the franchise alike. Speculation continues to swirl about whether Evans might make a surprise return in future MCU projects, including Avengers: Doomsday.
While Captain America: Brave New World received mixed reviews from audiences, Mackie’s performance has been a focal point of discussion. The film aims to reestablish the character within the evolving narrative of the MCU, where new heroes are emerging and established ones are transitioning.
Mackie expressed his excitement about working alongside Robert Downey Jr. as they begin filming Avengers: Doomsday. He described the experience as "a once-in-a-career opportunity," emphasizing the wealth of knowledge and support Downey brings to the set. "You learn so much and he gives so much as an actor and as a co-star," Mackie added, highlighting the collaborative spirit that defines the MCU.
As the franchise moves forward, fans are left to ponder the future of their favorite characters. With Evans’ Steve Rogers no longer in the picture, Mackie’s Sam Wilson is poised to take center stage, embodying the values and ideals that Captain America represents. The transition from one hero to another symbolizes a broader theme in the MCU: the passing of the torch to a new generation.
Moreover, the film's release and Mackie's performance have reignited discussions about the direction of the MCU. The franchise has long been known for its interconnected stories and character arcs, and with Mackie now firmly in the role of Captain America, the potential for new narratives is vast.
Despite the mixed critical reception of Brave New World, the emotional connection between Mackie and Evans resonates strongly with fans. The legacy of Captain America is not just about the shield but also about the friendships and bonds formed throughout the journey of these characters.
As audiences await further developments in the MCU, the camaraderie between Mackie and Evans serves as a reminder of the heart that lies at the core of these superhero stories. Whether or not Evans returns to the screen, his impact on the franchise and on Mackie's journey as the new Captain America will undoubtedly be felt for years to come.
In the meantime, Mackie is embracing his role and the responsibilities that come with it. He understands that stepping into such iconic shoes is no small feat, but he's ready to lead the charge as the new Captain America, carrying forward the legacy that Evans helped to build.
As fans continue to discuss and dissect the latest developments in the MCU, one thing is certain: the story of Captain America is far from over. With Mackie at the helm, there are plenty of adventures yet to unfold, and audiences are eager to see where this new chapter will lead.
