The upcoming MCU film Captain America: Brave New World revolves around Anthony Mackie‘s Sam Wilson as he takes over the mantle of Captain America. Recently, Mackie garnered considerable backlash for the comment he made in Rome during the press tour for the movie. The actor has now put out a statement in response to the controversy, clarifying his earlier comment.
Fans are divided over Mackie’s Captain America 4 comment
Anthony Mackie was addressing the media in Rome when he said that Captain America represented various things and that he didn’t think the term “‘America’ should be one of those representations.” Mackie elaborated that the character was “a man who keeps his word, who has honor, dignity and integrity. Someone who is trustworthy and dependable.”
Mackie might have been speaking about the broader appeal of Captain America and how the character represents ideals shared by all humanity. However, his comment garnered controversy with netizens claiming that the Elevation actor meant that Captain America should not represent the US.
An X (formerly Twitter) user with the handle @BryceStorbakken asked, “Why is his name Captain America and why does his suit and shield look like the American flag then?”
Another user, @Divine3rd, called Mackie’s comment a “Strange take,” adding, “Captain America literally has America in the name and represents American values of freedom, justice, and standing up for what’s right. Why try to separate that? The character’s whole origin is tied to WW2 America.”
Many netizens came to Mackie’s defense as well. @MasterTainment declared in their post that Mackie was “spot on.” They then proceeded to note that the MCU Steve Rogers was never a “nationalist” but someone who “hated bullies and valued freedom and integrity.” They ended the post writing, “Captain America is just MCU ‘Integrity Man.'”
Mackie issues statement over Captain America 4 comment backlash
Mackie shared his response to the backlash on his Instagram Story. He mentioned that he was a proud American and that ” taking on the shield of a hero like CAP is the honor of a lifetime.” He continued, “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.”
Captain America: Brave New World premieres in US theaters this Valentine’s Day.
Originally reported by Tamal Kundu on SuperHeroHype.
