Disney is hoping for a box office smash when the latest movie from the Marvel Cinematic Universe hits theaters next month, but the film’s lead actor is not doing the project any favors.
Anthony Mackie is picking up the Captain America shield in Captain America: Brave New World, which is set to hit theaters February 14. While on a promotional tour in Rome, Mackie curiously suggested the character… has nothing to do with America.
His take sparked immediate backlash, and, on Tuesday’s show, Megyn slammed but the latest example of why Hollywood is so out of touch.
Mackie’s Comment
Marvel aficionados we are not, but, as we understand it, Mackie rose to fame as Sam Wilson (a.k.a. Falcon). He stepped into the role of Captain America after the events of 2019’s Avengers: Endgame that saw Steve Rogers (played by Chris Evans) bow out of his superhero duties.
Steve Rogers passed the shield to Sam Wilson, and that is where this latest installment in the Captain America franchise appears to pick up. Mackie was promoting the film in Europe this week when he was asked a very basic question about what the character represents.
“Captain America represents a lot of different things, and I don’t think the term ‘America’ should be one of those representations,” he said. “It’s about a man who keeps his word, who has honor, dignity, and integrity. Someone who is trustworthy and dependable.”
The Backlash
That comment immediately drew fire online, where fans threatened to boycott the film. Megyn said Mackie’s rejection of Captain America is not unlike actress Rachel Zegler’s rejection of the traditional portrayal of Snow White, the Disney princess she is playing in the much-delayed live-action remake.
Both actors have undoubtedly caused the Mouse House headaches as they alienate moviegoers with their hot takes. “Honestly, it’s like they want us to hate these Hollywood stars,” Megyn noted. “There is Snow White with her, ‘Well, she’s not going to be rescued by a prince. I can tell you that.’ And now this guy with, I can tell you what: Captain America is not about America.'”
She had a message for Mackie: “Hello, you complete fool… There are two things Captain America is about – it is being a captain of America, for America,” Megyn said. “It is written right in the name. They idiot proofed it… You don’t even have to try hard.”
With that said, Megyn said these studios have no one to blame but themselves. “Why do they keep casting these people in these iconic American roles who hate the country,” she asked. “This is why the right half of the country hates you, Hollyweird, and Disney, and the people who put together these films.”
Much like the Oscar-nominated Emilia Pérez and Conclave, Megyn said it is a hard pass on the latest Captain America. “I’m sick of this nonsense,” she concluded. “Captain America, who appears to hate the country… Put another one on your list not to see.”
You can check out Megyn’s full analysis by tuning in to episode 993 on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you like to listen. And don’t forget that you can catch The Megyn Kelly Show live on SiriusXM’s Triumph (channel 111) weekdays from 12pm to 2pm ET.