Sebastian Stan has once again brought up one of the most repeated fantasies among Marvel fans: that his character, Bucky Barnes, ends up becoming Captain America. What is striking is that this time it is not just a fan wish, but an idea that the actor himself claims to have proposed directly to Kevin Feige, president of Marvel Studios.
The confession comes at a key moment for the actor, who is about to return as Bucky Barnes in Avengers: Doomsday, scheduled for release on December 18, 2026, and who is also shaping up to be a relevant piece within the Batman universe at DC. All of this explains why his statements about the shield have generated so much interest.
Sebastian Stan insists on becoming Captain America
In an interview with Josh Horowitz for the Happy, Sad, Confused podcast, Sebastian Stan spoke candidly about his future within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The actor acknowledged that he brings up the subject every chance he gets, even joking with his co-star Anthony Mackie, the current Captain America within the MCU.
Stan commented that he considers himself ready to take on the role whenever Marvel decides, although he clarified that his insistence has more to do with the type of action sequences he would like to perform than a desire to displace Mackie. The actor fondly recalled his time in titles like The Winter Soldier, Civil War, Infinity War, and Endgame, and noted that he feels a strong connection to that stage of the character.
In his own words, he believes that Bucky Barnes' evolution has been the right one so far, but he maintains the feeling that his narrative arc is not yet completely closed. Stan stated that he has no information about Marvel's future plans, although he insisted that he perceives that the studio itself also shares that same feeling of an unfinished story.
Could Bucky Barnes really become Captain America?
For now, there is no official sign that Marvel Studios is preparing a change in the role of Captain America. Anthony Mackie continues as the shield-bearer within the MCU and will have a prominent role in Avengers: Doomsday, where his version of Sam Wilson will lead a new team of Avengers.
Sebastian Stan will also appear in that same film as Bucky Barnes, which will allow us to see how the relationship between the two characters evolves. There is also the expectation, though unconfirmed, that both could coincide in Avengers: Secret Wars, scheduled for 2027.
Sebastian Stan’s future also involves DC
Aside from his career at Marvel, Sebastian Stan has been confirmed to participate in The Batman: Part II, the next installment directed by Matt Reeves. His arrival in the Batman cinematic universe does not necessarily imply an exit from Marvel, but it expands the possibilities of his career within superhero cinema.
Bucky Barnes' own journey, marked by his past as a HYDRA weapon and his subsequent redemption, makes the idea of inheriting Steve Rogers' legacy, at least from a narrative point of view, a possibility with dramatic weight. That does not mean it must happen to the detriment of Sam Wilson, as Marvel has room to continue developing both characters without the need to pose a direct competition for the shield.
For the moment, Kevin Feige has not announced any plans to transfer the title of Captain America to Bucky Barnes. But Sebastian Stan has already made his intention clear, and everything points to him continuing to insist in future conversations with the studio.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Sebastian Stan say about becoming Captain America?
He assured that he usually brings up the idea to Marvel whenever he can and that he feels prepared to take on the role if the studio decides.
Has Marvel confirmed that Bucky Barnes will be the new Captain America?
No. For now, Anthony Mackie remains the official Captain America of the MCU and there is no official announcement regarding a change.
When will Sebastian Stan return as Bucky Barnes?
His return is expected in Avengers: Doomsday, which is scheduled for release on December 18, 2026.
Could Bucky Barnes and Sam Wilson coincide in future films?
Both are expected to appear in Avengers: Secret Wars, scheduled for 2027, although there is no official confirmation regarding their joint participation.
Will Sebastian Stan also work on DC projects?
Yes, he has been confirmed for The Batman: Part II, directed by Matt Reeves, which expands his presence in superhero cinema beyond Marvel.
