Anthony Mackie Discusses The Possibility Of Chris Evans' Return In 'Captain America 4'

When Marvel debuted a live-action version of "Captain America" in 2011, fans of the character were swept into a world of emotion, action, and heroism as they got to see Steve Rogers/Captain America in a revamped narrative that turned out to be a major success.

Hollywood actor Chris Evans starred as the titular character, graciously embodying the role in the movie and across the two more sequels, "Captain America: The Winter Soldier" and "Captain America: Civil War."

However, his run in the role ended in "Avengers: Endgame," and the mantle of playing the role seemed to fall on The Falcon/Sam Wilson, portrayed by Anthony Mackie. Mackie has now discussed if fans will get to a cameo of Chris Evans in the upcoming sequel "Captain America 4."

At the D23 Expo, Mackie discussed the possibility that Evans' Steve Rogers could appear in the upcoming sequel, "Captain America: New World Order." The actor shared that although there is "a whole thing" going on regarding the film's production, he still hopes that he gets to star alongside Evans.

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Mackie jokingly referenced that his co-stars from "The Falcon and the Winter Soldier," Sebastian Stan and Wyatt Russell, landed roles opposite each other in Marvel's Thunderbolts. For that reason, he feels it's right for the showrunners to also bring back Evans for "Captain America 4."

"I'm highly upset that they put Sebastian in a movie with Wyatt and left me out. If Sebastian gets Wyatt, I should get Chris," per Variety.

Although the actor's statement did not directly address whether Evans will return in the next sequel, it did demonstrate that the notion was on the minds of many people, including Mackie and Marvel fans.

Mackie previously starred in "The Falcon and The Winter Soldier," which followed events after Evans' Steve Rogers stopped being Captain America. It debuted on March 19, 2021 and lasted six episodes until April 23.

The series received several accolades for its superb cast and crew performance. However, the show's narrative, which saw many of the villains being granted similar strength and speed to that of Steve Rogers, seemed to remind fans of Evans's absence.

With "Captain America 4" now set to debut on May 3, 2024. It's not surprising that speculations about Evans returning for the film have risen again. The actor's performance as the superpowered hero, whether as the solo star of the "Captain America" franchise or as a member of the "Avengers" films, still resonates with fans.

Evans had in the past said that he would only return to the franchise for the right script, as he believed he had wholly exhausted his run with the character.

The actor said at the time, per Screenrant, "I don't want to disappoint anybody but it's tough to... It was such a good run and I'm so happy with it. It's so precious to me. It would have to be perfect. It just would be scary to rattle something that is, again, so, so dear to me. That role means so much to me. So, to revisit it, it would be a tall order."

Given how nicely Captain America's tale was resolved, Evans' potential return may not be necessary for "Captain America 4," which might be part of the reasons why he is reluctant to reprise the role.

In the end, only time will tell if Evans makes a comeback as Captain America. If he does come back, it will probably be in flashback scenes or a supporting role while Mackie takes the lead.

Another approach may include Mackie running into a different Steve Rogers from another planet. Marvel's "Spiderman: No Way Home" introduced the narrative of having a multi-universe packed with variants. Hence, there could be another Steve Rogers lurking around in another reality.

If Evans does not return, he will remain fondly remembered by Marvel fans as they look forward to whatever new narrative the showrunners plan to follow in the upcoming sequel. Other casting details are still a secret, besides the fact that Mackie will feature in the movie. Fans will have no choice but to wait until a teaser is released sometime in 2023.