Anthony Mackie, the star of ‘Captain America: Brave New World‘, is redefining what it means to be a hero in today’s world. As the first Black actor to take on the iconic mantle of Captain America, Mackie’s journey as Sam Wilson isn’t just a storyline.
Ahead of his solo debut as the star-spangled Avenger, Mackie has shared an inspiring message about why his role is meaningful not just for Black children but for kids of all races.
Anthony Mackie Believes Black Representation Is Important For Both Black And White Kids
In a video interview with Agenzia Ansa, Anthony Mackie emphasized the importance of representation and the impact of seeing a hero who doesn’t conform to traditional molds. His words resonate with a world hungry for change, a world that needs its heroes to look like everyone.
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Since Steve passed the shield to Sam at the end of ‘Avengers: Endgame’, it marked a symbolic passing of the torch. However, with the mantle of Captain America comes scrutiny, and Mackie is no stranger to it. Mackie believes that despite his being fit for the role, there are those who resist the idea of a Black man as Captain America.
Speaking about the importance of representation, he said, “I think it’s just as important for Black kids to see a Black Captain America as it is for white kids. Growing up, my favorite hero was Green; it wasn’t about race or anything. It was about him being a good guy trying to do the right thing,” Mackie shared.
Moreover, Mackie’s message is as real as it gets. For Black children, seeing a Captain America who looks like them sends a powerful message of inclusion and possibility. For white children, it normalizes diversity and reinforces the idea that heroism is not limited by race.
Anthony Mackie’s Captain America Will Usher In A New Era For The MCU
‘Captain America: Brave New World’ isn’t just another superhero movie, it’s a milestone. As Sam Wilson, Mackie represents a new era for the Avengers and for Marvel’s storytelling. This new Captain America doesn’t shy away from challenges. “It’s very important for kids of all races to be able to watch and have someone to look up to no matter what they look like,” Mackie explained.
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Moreover, Marvel executives previously teased that ‘Brave New World’ will mark the beginning of the Young Avengers. Additionally, Mackie’s Captain America can be expected to lead them into becoming the new Avengers. After his solo outing, Sam is set to lead the Avengers in ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ in 2026.
