Anthony Mackie, the star of Captain America: Brave New World, has sparked debate with his interpretation of the iconic superhero. Speaking at a press event in Rome on January 27, Mackie explained his view of what Captain America truly represents.
Anthony Mackie Shares His Perspective on the Role
“For me, ‘Captain America’ represents a lot of things, and I don’t think the term ‘America’ should be one of those representations,” Mackie stated. Instead, he described the character as embodying honor, dignity, and integrity. “It’s about a man who keeps his word, who is trustworthy and dependable,” he said.
Mackie’s comments quickly divided fans, with some praising his broader vision for the character while others criticized his remarks as dismissive of the superhero’s roots.
Fans took to social media to express their thoughts, with some accusing Mackie of misunderstanding the essence of Captain America. Comments ranged from outright criticism to thoughtful discussion.
One user on X (formerly Twitter) wrote, “Well, that’s sure to sit well with your American audience.” Another criticized, “Bring back Steve [Rogers]. This guy is missing the point.”
Others, however, supported Mackie’s view. “He’s right. Captain America isn’t just about one country. He stands for the values that unite us all,” a commenter wrote.
Mackie, who made history as the first Black actor to take on the role of Captain America, addressed the importance of representation for children. “Growing up, one of my favorite superheroes was green,” he said. “It wasn’t about race. It was about someone trying to do the right thing.”
Mackie also reflected on his own journey, likening the experience of becoming Captain America to fulfilling a childhood dream. “As an actor, our job is to get back to the day where we see the dragon, slay the dragon, and save the princess,” he shared.
Whether Mackie’s interpretation resonates with audiences will become clear when Captain America: Brave New World premieres on February 14, 2025.