With
Avengers 4 on the horizon, it is very likely that next year will be the last time we see Chris Evans don the mantle of Captain America. Evans' contract with Marvel Studios is over with the sequel to
Avengers: Infinity War and the actor has expressed his desire to move on from the role, even though he would hate to give up the opportunity to portray Cap.
Fans have been theorizing who could take over for Evans and portray Captain America in the MCU going forward, with the two best candidates being Sam Wilson, aka Falcon, or Bucky Barnes, aka the Winter Soldier/White Wolf. Both characters have portrayed Cap in the comics, and there have even been subtle hints (possible foreshadowing??) in all three
Captain America films of Bucky's future.
Regardless of the events of
Infinity War, Sebastian Stan has shared his perspective on Bucky replacing Steve in future films, revealing some insight into how he would portray this transformation for his character:
I mean look, it would have to be a very different "Captain America," like it just wouldn't be the same. In the comic books it was always interesting because it was an emotional turmoil - there was a guilt there that was driving that character. Because of Steve's absence it sort of felt like the guy [Bucky] had to once again carry on this vision that his best friend had for years, and what he stood for. And that struggle - you have that coming into conflict with some who's still grappling with their own past, and what's the right thing to do now. And you have a character who's always searched for identity, and he finally gets an identity, only to have lose his identity again to another "idea," then it makes for a very complex take on it. So if they were to ever explore that, it would be a very different - definitely way darker - take on that situation.
It remains to be seen how the Russos will handle retiring Captain America from the franchise in
Avengers 4, and who will possibly take up his mantle, though Stan does have several films left on his contract with Marvel Studios.
What do you think about Stan's thoughts on Bucky potentially taking up the mantle of Captain America in the MCU? Be sure to share your feelings in the usual spot below!