Anthony Mackie admits he doesn't know Sam Wilson's MCU future beyond The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. Mackie first joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe in 2014's Captain America: The Winter Soldier, playing loyal US Air Force pararescue jumper-turned-superhero Sam. Since then, he's continued to put in supporting roles in various Marvel films, most notably in the Captain America franchiseThe Falcon and the Winter Soldier will mark the first time Sam will step into the spotlight for his own story, separate from Cap and the Avengers.

The Falcon and the Winter Soldier picks up with Sam and Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan) in the aftermath of 2019's Avengers: Endgame. Both Sam and Bucky were revived by the Hulk's (Mark Ruffalo) Snap, which brought back those who perished in Avengers: Infinity War. That alone would be a big change for Sam and Bucky, but the two will also be coping with Steve Rogers' (Chris Evans) decision to put aside his shield and live out a peaceful life. Steve handed the Captain America mantle to Sam, and The Falcon and the Winter Soldier will see him grappling with what that means.

Related: Why Falcon & The Winter Soldier Is Captain America: Civil War 2

The series has set up a compelling story for Sam, and one that could lead to future projects. As of right now, however, it's unclear as to what those projects could be. As part of a Variety piece on Mackie, it's said he is currently unaware of a theatrical path forward for Sam, whether he still be Falcon or Captain America by the end of The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. Additionally, Mackie confirmed there haven't been discussions about a season 2.

Sam Wilson holds the Captain America shield in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier

It's important to remember that just because Mackie doesn't know what's next for Sam doesn't mean nothing is next. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier could very well position Sam to be the MCU's next Captain America, and it would be a shame to not see that play out in a future movie or show. After spending so long as a supporting player, Mackie deserves the chance to spend more time at the forefront of the MCU. Of course, potential avenues forward depend entirely on the events of The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, so right now it is hard to speculate exactly where Sam could go next.

Marvel plans out everything years in advance, so there's a good chance Kevin Feige and the other powers that be already know what will become of Sam. Mackie might even know, but must keep quiet to prevent any spoilers from getting out. Either way, it doesn't seem as though there's reason to worry about Sam's early MCU departure just yet. It's better to watch The Falcon and the Winter Soldier first, then evaluate what could come next.

More: Why Falcon & The Winter Soldier Is Hiding The New Captain America

The Falcon and the Winter Soldier premieres on March 19 on Disney+.

Source: Variety

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