Anthony Mackie responds to backlash over Captain America controversial remarks

Actor Anthony Mackie who will star in the upcoming Captain America Brave New World recently found himself at the center of controversy following comments he made about the iconic Marvel superhero during a promotional tour in Italy a Deadline report saidHis remarks which went viral on social media sparked backlash among fans who felt the actor was distancing the character from its American rootsIn response to the growing criticism Mackie took to social media to clarify his stanceLet me be clear about this Im a proud American and taking on the shield of a hero like CAP is the honor of a lifetime Mackie wrote in an Instagram Stories postI have the utmost respect for those who serve and have served our country he added in his postMackie then elaborated on his thoughts about the character of Captain America emphasising that the superheros values transcend national boundariesCAP has universal characteristics that people all over the world can relate to he addedThe controversy began when Mackie while promoting Captain America Brave New World in Rome made a statement about the characters association with AmericaTo me Captain America represents a lot of different things and I dont think the term America should be one of those representations Mackie said adding Its about a man who keeps his word who has honour dignity and integrity Someone who is trustworthy and dependable according to the Deadline reportThis comment though meant to highlight the universal qualities of the superhero led to a mixed reactionFans of the character particularly those who associate Captain America with the American ideals of freedom and patriotism expressed their discontent with Mackies statement as per DeadlineCaptain America Brave New World will be the first film in the Captain America franchise since Avengers Endgame 2019 in which Chris Evans character Steve Rogers passed the shield to Mackies Sam WilsonMackie also played the role of Sam Wilson in the 2021 Disney series The Falcon and the Winter SoldierThe actor has long been a vocal advocate for diversity in superhero films Back in 2016 while promoting Captain America Civil War Mackie discussed the significance of representation in the superhero genreI think we live in a day in age now where little black kids feel like they cant connect to a character who doesnt look like them Mackie said during an interview adding Everybodys so personal nowadays its not so much about connecting to an emotion or an idea Its more so connecting about someone who looks like you you know according to DeadlineCaptain America Brave New World will be released in theatres on Fevruary 14This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed agencies Midday accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability trustworthiness reliability and data of the text Midday managementmiddaycom reserves the sole right to alter delete or remove without notice the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever