Marvel Studios is bringing a brand-new era of storytelling with Captain America: Brave New World, the fourth film in the Captain America series and part of Marvel Phase 5. The movie, set for release in February 2025, will feature both new and familiar faces, continuing the story after The Falcon and the Winter Soldier series.
With Anthony Mackie now stepping into the role of Captain America, this film is one of the most anticipated titles in Marvel’s upcoming slate. In this article, we break down the cast, their characters, and what fans can expect from this exciting installment.
- Who is playing the new Captain America and what does it mean for Marvel Phase 5?
- Which returning Marvel stars are set to appear alongside Anthony Mackie?
- What new characters and actors will join the Marvel universe in Brave New World?
- How does the cast reflect Marvel’s diversity and global storytelling goals?
- What role will villains play in shaping the story of Captain America: Brave New World?
- How does the full cast lineup look for Captain America: Brave New World?
- How will Captain America: Brave New World connect with other Marvel Phase 5 projects?
- Why is this film considered a turning point for Marvel’s storytelling?
- Final Thoughts: What should fans expect from the cast and characters of Brave New World?
Who is playing the new Captain America and what does it mean for Marvel Phase 5?
Anthony Mackie officially takes over as the new Captain America, carrying Steve Rogers’ shield and legacy. He plays Sam Wilson, who was previously Falcon, and his journey as Captain America started in the Disney+ series The Falcon and the Winter Soldier.
Unlike Steve Rogers, Sam does not have super-soldier serum powers, which makes his version of Captain America different more human, more vulnerable, yet equally inspiring.
- Actor: Anthony Mackie
- Character: Sam Wilson / Captain America
- Previous Appearances: Avengers: Endgame, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier
This marks a historic moment for Marvel, as Sam Wilson is the first Black Captain America in the MCU, adding a new dimension to representation and leadership in the superhero world.
Which returning Marvel stars are set to appear alongside Anthony Mackie?
The film will not just focus on Sam Wilson but will also bring back several characters from past Marvel stories. One of the biggest names is Tim Blake Nelson, returning after nearly 17 years as Samuel Sterns / The Leader from The Incredible Hulk (2008). Sterns is expected to be the central villain in this movie.
Another returning star is Liv Tyler as Betty Ross, a scientist and Bruce Banner’s former love interest. Her return reconnects the MCU back to the early Hulk storyline, which has long been on pause.
- Tim Blake Nelson as The Leader (Samuel Sterns)
- Liv Tyler as Betty Ross
- Harrison Ford as Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross
Harrison Ford makes his MCU debut, taking over the role of General Ross after the passing of William Hurt. His role is key as Thunderbolt Ross reportedly becomes the President of the United States in the film, which could deeply impact Captain America’s journey.
What new characters and actors will join the Marvel universe in Brave New World?
In addition to the returning cast, Marvel is expanding its universe with new characters who will play pivotal roles. Among them is Shira Haas, who plays Sabra, an Israeli superhero. This is her MCU debut, and it signals Marvel’s continued efforts to bring international heroes into the spotlight.
Another important addition is Danny Ramirez as Joaquin Torres, who inherits the mantle of Falcon after Sam Wilson becomes Captain America. Torres is expected to be a major supporting hero in the film.
- Shira Haas as Sabra
- Danny Ramirez as Joaquin Torres / Falcon
How does the cast reflect Marvel’s diversity and global storytelling goals?
Marvel Studios has been making consistent efforts to diversify its superhero lineup. With Anthony Mackie’s Captain America, Shira Haas’ Sabra, and Danny Ramirez’s Falcon, the cast showcases representation across race, gender, and nationality. This allows Marvel to tell stories that appeal to audiences worldwide.
Diversity also helps Marvel compete in the modern film market, where representation is often linked to box office performance. For example, Black Panther grossed over $1.3 billion globally while Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings earned $432 million worldwide, showing the financial strength of inclusive storytelling.
What role will villains play in shaping the story of Captain America: Brave New World?
The confirmed villain is The Leader (Samuel Sterns), who has superhuman intelligence after being exposed to gamma radiation. Unlike other villains who rely on strength, The Leader uses his mind to manipulate and control situations. His inclusion makes the conflict more political and intellectual, which is a fresh angle for a Captain America film.
General Ross, now as the U.S. President, could also be a complicated figure. His strict military background and history with the Hulk might bring him into conflict with Sam Wilson, raising questions about power, responsibility, and freedom.
How does the full cast lineup look for Captain America: Brave New World?
Here’s a detailed table of the confirmed cast and their roles:
| Actor | Character | Role Type | Notable Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anthony Mackie | Sam Wilson / Captain America | Lead Hero | First Black Captain America in MCU |
| Harrison Ford | Thaddeus Ross / President Ross | Supporting | MCU debut, replaces William Hurt |
| Tim Blake Nelson | Samuel Sterns / The Leader | Villain | Returns after 17 years from Hulk |
| Liv Tyler | Betty Ross | Supporting | Returns after long absence |
| Danny Ramirez | Joaquin Torres / Falcon | Hero | New Falcon, Sam’s ally |
| Shira Haas | Sabra | New Hero | First Israeli superhero in MCU |
How will Captain America: Brave New World connect with other Marvel Phase 5 projects?
This film is part of Phase 5, which also includes titles like Thunderbolts (2025) and Blade. Since General Ross is linked to the Thunderbolts, there is speculation that Captain America: Brave New World will lay the groundwork for that film. Betty Ross’ return could also connect to future Hulk-related projects.
Moreover, Sam Wilson’s journey as Captain America might cross paths with characters like the Avengers, as Marvel builds toward its next massive event films: Avengers: The Kang Dynasty and Avengers: Secret Wars.
Why is this film considered a turning point for Marvel’s storytelling?
Captain America: Brave New World is more than just another sequel. It represents the MCU’s transition into a new era where legacy heroes pass the torch and new ones rise. Sam Wilson’s Captain America offers a fresh perspective on leadership, while the political themes make the story more grounded.
Marvel also has the challenge of proving that Phase 5 can match the excitement of the earlier Avengers saga. With a strong cast and a mix of action, politics, and emotional storytelling, this film could be a defining moment for the MCU’s future.
Final Thoughts: What should fans expect from the cast and characters of Brave New World?
Fans should expect a blend of nostalgia, with returning characters like Betty Ross, and excitement with new heroes like Sabra and Torres. The combination of Anthony Mackie’s grounded Captain America and Tim Blake Nelson’s intellectual villain promises a story filled with both action and moral challenges.
With political stakes, global heroes, and emotional depth, Captain America: Brave New World has the potential to become one of the most impactful films in Marvel’s Phase 5. As the MCU moves toward its next big saga, this movie’s cast and character lineup will shape the path forward.