Key Takeaways:
– Sebastian Stan nearly lost his role as Bucky Barnes in Marvel’s Cinematic Universe (MCU) over an April Fool’s Day miscommunication.
– Stan was first offered the role on April Fool’s Day and initially believed it was a prank.
– Stan is set to reprise his character in MCU’s upcoming title, Thunderbolts, scheduled for a May 5, 2025, release.
– The series The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, in which Stan also starred, is unlikely to be renewed for a second season, as revealed by co-star Anthony Mackie.
Sebastian Stan’s Unexpected Casting Call
Making his initial appearance as James ‘Bucky’ Barnes in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) back in 2011 in the Joe Johnston-directed Captain America: The First Avenger, Sebastian Stan left an indelible mark. Sharing credits with Chris Evans, who brilliantly portrayed the title character, and later with the new Captain America, Sam Wilson, Stan’s casting process was nothing short of exciting.
Stan’s saga in the MCU almost took a different route when his casting call from Kevin Feige, Marvel Studios’ president, was mistaken for an April Fool’s Day prank. Stan relayed this humorous mix-up during an interview with Variety.
The April Fool’s Day Call
Stan was caught off guard when he received the casting call on April 1, better known as April Fool’s Day. Given the coincidence, Stan dismissed the unexpected call from an unknown number.
“I was working on set when an unknown number called me. I don’t usually pick up unknown numbers”, Stan said. An hour later, he checked his voicemail only to realize that Kevin Feige had called to offer him the role of Bucky Barnes.
Stan’s Growing Role in MCU
Stan was more than relieved to listen to the voicemail. He proved to be an impressive portrayal of Barnes and continues to be an integral part of the MCU.
With fans excitedly awaiting his appearance in the upcoming MCU film, Thunderbolts, Stan remains eager to return to his character. Nevertheless, the future looks a little disappointing for fans of The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, the Disney+ series in which Stan starred beside Anthony Mackie.
The Unlikely Continuation of The Falcon and the Winter Soldier
Despite its popularity, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier seems unlikely to see a second season. Anthony Mackie, who stars as Sam Wilson, the new Captain America, recently expressed his disappointment at not being able to reunite with his co-stars.
Echoing the sentiments of many fans globally, Mackie stated, “I was actually excited to do a second season, just so me and Sebastian [Stan] can get paid to hang out.” However, he understood and accepted the studio’s decision to switch back to movies.
The Future for Sebastian Stan in MCU
While the discontinuation of The Falcon and the Winter Soldier is indeed disappointing for its fans, anticipated plans for Thunderbolts brighten the horizon. Stan confirmed his return to his character in an interview with Variety, expressing his enthusiasm about his comeback and the extraordinary cast.
The movie is presently under production, with Florence Pugh recently sharing a sneak peek from the set. Thunderbolts is slated for release on May 5, 2025.
