Anthony Mackie wants everyone to know that he loves his country.
The Captain America: Brave New World star took to Instagram Stories to clarify his recent statements about what the film represents in relation to America.
“Let me be clear about this, I’m a proud American, and taking on the shield of a hero like CAP is the honor of a lifetime,” Mackie wrote. “I have the utmost respect for those who serve and have served our country. CAP has universal characteristics that people all over the world can relate to.”
Clarifying His Statements
His new comments come after remarks he made onstage in Rome while promoting the upcoming Marvel film. A brief clip of his speech circulated online, prompting debate over his perspective on Captain America’s symbolism.
“To me, Captain America represents a lot of different things, and I don’t think the term ‘America’ should be one of those representations,” Mackie explained. “It’s about a man who keeps his word, who has honor, dignity, and integrity. Someone who is trustworthy and dependable.”
Embracing Captain America’s Legacy
Brave New World marks the first Captain America film since Chris Evans’ Steve Rogers passed the shield to Mackie’s Sam Wilson at the end of Avengers: Endgame in 2019. Prior to the film, Mackie starred in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier on Disney+ in 2021, where his character struggled with accepting the mantle of Captain America.
In an interview with The Cine Geek, Mackie discussed the significance of playing Captain America as a Black man.
“I feel like it’s just as important for Black kids to see a Black Captain America as it is for white kids to see a Black Captain America. Growing up, my favorite hero was green,” Mackie said, referring to the Hulk. “So it wasn’t about race or anything, it was about him being a good guy trying to do the right thing.”
The Plot of Brave New World
In Brave New World, Sam Wilson attempts to mend his fractured relationship with Thaddeus Ross, now played by Harrison Ford, who took over the role after William Hurt’s passing in 2022. Ross, now the U.S. president, is expected to play a key role in the film’s events.
Captain America: Brave New World debuts in theaters on February 14, 2025.