Beyond Black Panther: 8 Black Marvel Heroes Who Should Join The MCU Next

Sam Wilson (Captain America)

We’ve already discussed the issue Marvel will have when they reach the fateful day Iron Man needs to be replaced, but what about Captain America? Thankfully, there are a few options open to them. The two most obvious candidates are Steve Rogers’ best buds Bucky Barnes and Sam Wilson. But which of them would be the better contender to become the next Sentinel of Liberty?

Well, going by the comics, that’s definitely Sam. Though Bucky stepped into Rogers’ boots for a while, Wilson’s tenure as Captain America has been much more notable. In recent years, Sam has taken over from his friend and has proven himself every bit as brave, wise, compassionate and as in tune with what Captain America is all about as Steve. And, if you want to get all sociological about it, there’s probably a deeper meaning to having a black man take on the mantle of the hero who represents the face of the USA.

Obviously, the MCU is a completely different ballgame from the comics universe, but Sam is still the top pick to replace Rogers. Bucky is much more interesting as a fractured anti-hero than he would be as a symbol of hope like Cap, anyway. We’ve liked what we’ve seen of Anthony Mackie as Falcon so far and we’re willing to watch what he can do if he’s promoted to the Captain America role.