What is the controversy around Captain America: Brave New World ? Explained 

Captain America: Brave New World is nearing its release date, and the film has garnered immense anticipation among fans who are excited to see Sam Wilson take on the Captain America shield and fill Steve Rogers' shoes. As the film continues with its press tour and promotions, actor Anthony Mackie, who plays Sam Wilson in the film, seems to have found himself in a tough spot, surrounded by controversies ablaze.

During a sitdown in Rome for promotion of the film, the actor spoke about what Captain America stands for:

“For me, Captain America represents a lot of different things, and I don’t think the term, you know, ‘America’ should be one of those representations. Like, it’s about a man who keeps his word, who has honor and dignity and integrity, someone who is trustworthy and dependable.”

The statement reportedly ended up becoming the center of controversy as many pointed him out as being anti-American and went as far as to boycott Captain America: Brave New World and cancel Mackie.

Mackie also spoke out on how representation is crucial in films, and the importance of there being a Black Captain America. The actor said:

"I think it’s just as important for Black kids to see a Black Captain America as it is for white kids.....It’s very important for kids of all races to be able to watch and have someone to look up to no matter what they look like."

Nevertheless, the controversy reportedly continued as many raised questions about his patriotism and called him out on his comments against the country. As the online bashing reached an oversaturated point, the actor went on to his social media to clarify his words, setting the record straight on what he meant.

Posting on his Instagram stories on January 28, 2025, he started by stating that he's a proud American, adding:

"Taking on the shield of a hero like CAP is the honor of a lifetime. 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."

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More details on Captain America: Brave New World

With just two weeks till its release, Captain America: Brave New World is all set to reach fans who have shown both excitement and anticipation for the film as they get ready to embrace Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson as their new Captain America.

The film will center on Wilson saving the country from a global attack and diving deep into a potential threat to the world while he battles a new villain. Thaddeus Ross now sits as the President of the U.S. and aims to reassemble the Avengers. He will also be making his first appearance as Red Hulk, a detail many fans are excited to explore as the red giant makes its debut in cinema.

Captain America: Brave New World is all set to hit theaters on February 14, 2025.