Since Chris Evans hung up his Captain America shield in Avengers: Endgame, rumors of his return as Steve Rogers have persisted. He's consistently denied them, claiming retirement. However, these rumors are fueled by a key difference between the MCU and comic books: in comics, death is rarely permanent.
Death and resurrection are common comic book tropes. Steve Rogers' death in the aftermath of Marvel's 2007 Civil War storyline was a major event, leading to Bucky Barnes temporarily taking up the mantle. Rogers' eventual return, explained away by plot devices, was followed years later by another such event. His super-soldier serum was neutralized, aging him drastically, and Sam Wilson (The Falcon) became Captain America. This storyline mirrors the MCU's transition to Anthony Mackie as Captain America in Captain America: Brave New World.
Yet, shortly after Wilson became Captain America in the comics, Rogers' aging was reversed, and he resumed his role. This, along with similar storylines for characters like Batman and Spider-Man, explains the persistence of rumors about Chris Evans' return. The original always seems to come back.
Anthony Mackie, in a recent interview, expressed hope for Sam Wilson's continued tenure as Captain America, stating its success depends on the film's reception. He believes the film will solidify Sam Wilson *as* Captain America.
Mackie's position seems more secure than Sebastian Stan's ever was. While Bucky's time as Captain America ended in the comics, Steve Rogers' return saw a shared mantle, with both Rogers and Wilson wielding the shield. Even if Chris Evans returns in future Avengers films, Mackie's role remains strong.
However, the MCU differs from the comics. The MCU emphasizes permanence; deaths tend to be final. This contrasts with the cyclical nature of comic book narratives. Steve Rogers' departure seems definitive.
MCU producer Nate Moore confirms Sam Wilson *is* Captain America, emphasizing the studio's intention to establish lasting change. Director Julius Onah highlights the dramatic potential of Sam Wilson's role and his future leadership of the Avengers.
By establishing permanence, the MCU aims to differentiate itself from the cyclical nature of its comic counterpart. Moore emphasizes Sam Wilson's distinct identity and potential for a unique Avengers team. The future Avengers will likely differ significantly from those of previous phases.
With many original Avengers absent, the next major MCU event will likely differ from the Infinity War/Endgame era. Anthony Mackie, however, will be central, leading the Avengers as the sole Captain America. The MCU’s commitment to this seems unwavering.
