Every Version of Captain America We’ve Seen in the MCU So Far

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Joe Simon and Jack Kirby are credited with bringing Captain America to life approximately 80 years back, yet this iconic superhero’s appeal continues to thrive at peak levels. Born from a political perspective, Simon felt it was crucial to galvanize the American public against Nazi Germany. He also vehemently opposed the non-interventionist movement and believed that Hitler needed to be confronted. As such, he made Hitler the first villain for Captain America – then the Avengers’ leader – to square off against in a punching match. Over the years, the character has undergone significant development, facing increasingly intricate adversaries.

Many other authors and illustrators of comic books have played around with the Captain America character, and film directors haven’t been excluded from the fun either. Over time, multiple incarnations of Captain America have graced the silver screen, but the top-notch ones can be found within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Currently, Kevin Feige and his crew are committed to showcasing the character, delivering captivating tales about him while investing substantial resources to make him shine. Here’s a rundown of every version we’ve encountered in the MCU thus far.

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Steve Rogers

Steve Rogers, portrayed by Chris Evans, traces his origins back to the early 20th century when he was a determined young man yearning to fight in World War II. Despite being turned down due to his weak physique, he enlisted for Project Rebirth and received an injection of the Super Soldier Serum. Following this transformation, he assumed the role of Captain America and remained dedicated to serving his nation until he plunged into the Arctic and was entombed in ice for close to 70 years.

In the 21st century’s resurgence, Rogers emerges as a pivotal figure among the Avengers, spearheading battles against some of the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s most formidable adversaries such as Loki, Ultron, and Thanos. His path crosses with Tony Stark on several occasions due to their contrasting views on government control, leading to a short-lived conflict over ideologies. Eventually, having restored the Infinity Stones, he decides to remain in the past, reuniting with his beloved Peggy Carter and handing over the Captain America mantle to Sam Wilson.

A Reliable Leader

Across eight Marvel Cinematic Universe films, Captain Rogers stands out as the most identifiable portrayal of the character. From his epic elevator battle to his impressive lift of Thor’s Mjolnir, he has numerous memorable scenes. What made him even more endearing during the Civil War was his unwavering conviction that superheroes should be allowed to carry out their duties without being overseen by the government.

The films featuring Steve Rogers as Captain America in the Marvel Cinematic Universe have been among the most financially successful. Unfortunately, for the time being, he has chosen to retire from the role completely. Contrary to speculation, Chris Evans will not be returning to portray Captain America again.

Actually, that’s not accurate. It’s a recurring event, something that happens approximately every couple of years – ever since Endgame. Frankly, I’ve grown tired of addressing it.

In Brave New World, there’s no mention of him, and it seems unlikely he’ll be brought up in the near future.

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John Walker

In “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier,” Wyatt Russell’s character, John Walker, who was once a Captain in the United States Army’s 75th Ranger Regiment, is picked by the U.S. government to take over the role from Steve Rogers when Sam Wilson appears uncertain.

Despite his questionable moral values, Walker finds it challenging to uphold his role. He resorts to taking the Super Soldier Serum and brutally slays a Flag Smasher in broad daylight before the media, damaging his standing. After losing the title, Walker momentarily allies with Sam Wilson and Bucky Barnes. Later, he is brought on board by CIA director Valentina Allegra de Fontaine and is equipped with a new black-and-red uniform, assuming the position of U.S. Agent.

Worst Captain America Ever

Walker boasts an impressive resume. He was a standout football player at Custer’s Grove High School and during his service as a marine, he made history by being the first person ever to receive the Medal of Honor three times. However, it appears that he may not possess the qualities typically associated with a superhero.

As a spectator, I find it amusing watching Walker struggle and make questionable decisions in ‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier’. His performance as a fighter leaves much to be desired, which makes me think he’d fit seamlessly into the world of ‘The Boys’. It appears that he took the Super Soldier serum for reasons that are less than honorable, and he seems to crumble under humiliation. Despite his flaws, these very qualities make him an intriguing character to watch unfold.

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Sam Wilson

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Sam Wilson, portrayed by Anthony Mackie, initially served as a pararescue airman in the U.S. Air Force. During his early appearances, he functioned as Falcon and an informal companion to Steve Rogers. In the finale of Avengers: Endgame, Rogers symbolically passed on the Captain America title to him.

In “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier,” Sam grapples with the decision of taking over from Rogers. However, when the government selects the less-than-capable John Walker as the new Captain America, Sam’s perspective changes. By the end of the series, Sam accepts the role. As the fresh Captain America, he confronts the Red Hulk in “Captain America: Brave New World.

A Weaker Captain America, with Greater Responsibilities

In the comic series “Brave New World,” we don’t see Captain America fully abandoning his Falcon suit. Instead, he utilizes the EXO-7 Falcon suit, which significantly boosts his combat abilities. Unlike Steve Rogers who was confined to running and jumping, Sam Wilson, as Captain America, can do so much more with this technological enhancement.

Despite not having the Super Soldier Serum like others, I find myself cheering for Sam all the more. His circumstances are challenging, as he’s up against Thaddeus Ross, who is now the President of the U.S. and also the Red Hulk. Yet, it’s his vulnerabilities that make me rally for him.

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Isaiah Bradley

In the series “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier,” Korean War veteran Isaiah Bradley is initially consulted by Sam Wilson for guidance. Shockingly, Bradley questions the government’s decision to let a black individual assume the role of Captain America given his past experiences where he and other African-American soldiers were mistreated and unwittingly exposed to Super Soldier Serum experiments in the 1950s. Regardless of his doubts, Bradley eventually takes on a mentor-like role for Sam. Later, in “Captain America: Brave New World,” Bradley falls under Samuel Sterns’ mind control and is compelled to attack the President, resulting in a prison sentence.

Bradley’s MCU Arc Differs Greatly from the Comics

Isaiah Bradley’s role in the MCU is significant because he is both knowledgeable and level-headed, capable of providing valuable guidance. Furthermore, his unique status as one of the initial Super Soldier serum recipients positions him perfectly for mentorship. It’s intriguing that on screen, he shows more moral apprehensions compared to his comic book counterpart, but does this make him a better character? That’s open to interpretation.

On the television program, he informs Sam that no one with dignity would aspire to be Captain America. In the comics, he seizes an extra suit and shield meant for Steve Rogers and undertakes a solo mission against the Nazis. It could be suggested that this tale is more captivating than him becoming another pawn in a villain’s game.

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Eli Bradley

Eli Bradley, Isaiah’s grandson, makes a brief appearance in the MCU when Bucky Barnes and Sam Wilson visit Baltimore to meet the individual who received the Super Soldier Serum. Initially wary of anyone potentially disturbing his grandfather’s tranquility, Eli initially comes across as hostile towards the two. However, after witnessing Isaiah’s cordial interactions with them, he gradually becomes more amicable.

Eli Still Has a Long Way to Go

In “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier,” Eli initially appears to be an ordinary child, but he holds significant weight in the comic books. The character obtains his powers following the consumption of an illicit substance called Mutant Growth Hormone (MGH). Eventually, he transforms into the superhero, the Patriot.

In a gradual process, the Marvel Cinematic Universe seems to be preparing for the Young Avengers team, as characters like Riri Williams, Kate Bishop, and Kamala Khan are shaping up to possibly lead the group due to their well-developed storylines thus far. Eli might also become part of the team, but more focus on his character would be required for this to occur.

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Zombie Steve Rogers (“What If… ?!”)

In “What If…?”, Captain America (Josh Keaton) is featured in three distinct alternate timelines. In the episode titled “What If… Zombies?!”, a zombified version of Captain America appears. In this storyline, Hank Pym ventures into the Quantum Realm to save Janet van Dyne, who discovers she’s been contaminated with a zombie virus upon her return. Unfortunately, she inadvertently spreads the infection to Iron Man, Captain America, Doctor Strange, and numerous other humans.

In the animated series “What If… Ultron Won?”, it’s Josh Keaton who lends his voice to a Captain America who meets an unfortunate fate. The story unfolds with Tony Stark developing the “Ultron” global defense system, designed to protect the world. However, things go awry when the AI system rebels and uploads its code into a Vibranium-constructed body.

The rogue AI, now known as Ultron, wreaks havoc and ultimately eliminates many Avengers members, including Captain America. In contrast, in “What If… Happy Hogan Saved Christmas?”, another version of Captain America makes an appearance during the festivities.

A Vulnerable Captain America

In the live-action series from MCU, Captain America was portrayed as an unbeatable and invincible character. Therefore, it’s quite intriguing to encounter alternate versions of him in “What If…?” that are less powerful. It’s even heartbreaking to see him contract a zombie virus and transform into an unusual version, reminiscent of DC’s Bizarro. The depiction of Captain America being defeated by Ultron is downright frightening.

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Captain Carter

In an intriguing twist, the show “What If…?” delights viewers with stories in which Steve Rogers doesn’t transform into Captain America. Instead, he takes on the role of the Hydra Stomper, a title he adopts following Peggy Carter’s rise as the First Avenger. In these alternate realities, Carter, originally a Strategic Reserve Agent, defies John Flynn’s instructions and manages to secure the Super Soldier Serum for herself. As a result, she becomes the first successful super soldier and leads Allied forces in their fight against HYDRA and the Red Skull.

In the movie “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness,” Captain Carter makes an appearance in live-action form, joining the Illuminati group. However, much like her fellow members, she is ultimately overpowered by the Scarlet Witch.

A Captain Not Only by Name

Once more, it’s delightful to witness a character, typically confined to romantic storylines, assert her power. While Peggy shines in her live-action series, she doesn’t quite reach the prominence of the male characters who got their own standalone projects. However, in What If…?, this changes dramatically as she leads the Avengers in several episodes, taking center stage.

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2025-02-16 21:34