Six years after the Avengers disbanded following Thanos' defeat and Tony Stark's demise, the world needs its heroes again. With new Avengers films slated for 2026 and 2027, the MCU must swiftly reassemble the team. This crucial recruitment process begins in Captain America: Brave New World.
Marvel Studios producer Nate Moore explains the strategic delay in reuniting the Avengers post-Endgame: "We knew if we jumped right back into the Avengers after Endgame, we wouldn't give people a chance to miss it." He emphasizes Captain America's central role in successful Avengers teams, highlighting the time invested in developing Sam Wilson into a capable leader after inheriting the mantle. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier showcased Wilson's struggles, but in Brave New World, he confidently embraces his role. However, a new challenge awaits: leading a new Avengers team.
A marketing clip reveals President Ross (Harrison Ford), succeeding the late William Hurt, tasks Wilson with restarting the Avengers initiative. This might surprise fans, considering Ross's role in creating the Sokovia Accords. Director Julius Onah clarifies: "The man we're meeting now is an elder statesman, a diplomat…who sees and understands the errors of his past." Ross's decision stems from recognizing the Avengers' potential global benefit.
The Avengers' reformation won't mirror their previous iteration. Captain America's official government role, established in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, positions the team as a US defense department branch. Moore explains Ross's motivation: "He certainly realized that the Avengers left unchecked may not be the best idea…he figures why not do it first before somebody beats me to the punch."
Sam Wilson's Captain America Journey in the Comics
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The potential conflict between Ross and Wilson is palpable, given their history. Onah emphasizes Wilson's emotional journey and the inherent tension between them. The possibility of John Walker leading a government-sanctioned team in Thunderbolts is raised.
If Wilson leads an independent team, it sets the stage for Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom in Avengers: Doomsday. Regardless, Brave New World marks Wilson's journey towards Avengers leadership. Onah highlights Wilson's empathy as his superpower, emphasizing his ability to understand diverse perspectives. Moore concludes that Wilson's journey aims to solidify his worthiness as Captain America and prepare him to lead the Avengers.
With only two films between Brave New World and Avengers: Doomsday, Wilson's recruitment efforts will likely span Thunderbolts and Fantastic Four: First Steps. While the path to Avengers 2.0 is shorter than its predecessor, the stage is set for a new era of Earth's Mightiest Heroes.
