“Who the f*ck else is going to LEAD the avengers???” - Fans debate over the rumored news of Captain America as the lead of Avengers: Doomsday
Captain America is once again at the center of a heated online debate after MCU Film News reported on June 14, 2025, that Sam Wilson will take the lead role in the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday. The casting breakdown shared on X outlined that Captain America is listed as the central character, with Black Panther and Shang-Chi in supporting roles, and Doctor Strange’s role marked as uncertain.
The post has since gone viral across social media, with fans weighing in on whether Wilson is the right choice to lead the Avengers. The reaction comes just ahead of Marvel Studios’ expected reveal of more official information, likely to be announced at the upcoming San Diego Comic-Con 2025. As of now, Marvel has not shared a full synopsis or trailer.
Though Sam Wilson was previously handed the shield by Steve Rogers, and later starred in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, his elevation to team leader has drawn a mix of support and skepticism. As discussion over legacy and leadership in the MCU unfolds, one fan’s viral question summed up the sentiment many are now debating.
“People getting mad that CAPTAIN AMERICA has a lead role in the AVENGERS movie???? who the f**k else is going to LEAD the avengers???” a fan said.
These opening reactions represent vocal support for Sam Wilson. Fans backing him point to the natural arc from Endgame and his successful handoff moment in earlier MCU entries. Others note the backlash as expected but unwarranted, given his consistent presence and growth in the franchise.
The next few responses reflect mixed reactions. Some fans raise concerns about whether Sam Wilson as Captain America feels like the right character to carry a movie of this scale. A few suggested alternative leaders while questioning the emotional impact and charisma needed to anchor an ensemble film.
“They also mad that people are considering Thunderbolts a flop compared to CA 🤣🤣🤣 oh they wanted to see Sam flop so bad,” a fan said.
“That’s crazy and wtf did he even do to get crazy stuff towards him??? bro’s literally the best 😭,” another fan said.
“No they mad a black man is the lead and they can't keep Sam's name out of their mouth because Steve Rogers is living rent free in their heads,” a netizen said.
These tweets explore how race, nostalgia, and expectations around legacy may be shaping the current discourse. They reveal that while many support Sam’s leadership, others are struggling to separate the role from its previous holder, Steve Rogers.
Additional tweets show an increasing desire for other characters to step into the spotlight. Fans expressed interest in seeing Thor, Doctor Strange, or even Captain Carter as leaders, while some pushed for more representation for newer or underutilized heroes.
“I think in general most Marvel fans really love Anthony Mackie. But it’s also very hard for most to feel any excitement whatsoever to see him as Captain America leading the Avengers. It just feels … eh. And I hate that. I wish it was different. I’m seeing the movie regardless,” a fan said.
“Ughhhh no one wants Sam as the lead. I’d rather see Captain Carter lead 😂,” another fan said.
“Should be Thor or Dr Strange as lead role sigh,” a netizen said.
And a few had other character preferences entirely.
“Is there anyway we can make them a little bit more certain Doctor Strange is one of the best characters; bring him back,” a fan said.
“SHANG CHI NOT BEING A SIDE CHARACTER YIPPEE,” another fan said.
These responses highlight fatigue among some sections of the fandom and a desire to shake up the team dynamic. While Wilson's Captain America has his supporters, these posts show that fans are still divided on how the Avengers leadership should evolve.
Captain America’s reported role in Avengers: Doomsday and other casting details
According to the IMDb listing and information from outlets like Deadline published on March 26, 2025, Avengers: Doomsday will feature Captain America at the forefront of the new team. Marvel Studios has not officially confirmed the full cast lineup in press releases, but a livestream earlier this year confirmed several actors.
Anthony Mackie (Captain America), Chris Hemsworth (Thor), Vanessa Kirby (Susan Storm), Paul Rudd (Ant-Man), Florence Pugh (Yelena), and Simu Liu (Shang-Chi) are among the major confirmed cast.
Others include Letitia Wright (Black Panther), Sebastian Stan (Bucky Barnes), Tenoch Huerta (Namor), Ebon Moss-Bachrach (Thing), Kelsey Grammer (Beast), and Lewis Pullman (Sentry). Pedro Pascal is joining as Mister Fantastic.
Additionally, veteran actors like Tom Hiddleston (Loki), Patrick Stewart (Professor X), Ian McKellen (Magneto), and Channing Tatum (Gambit) have been confirmed. Robert Downey Jr. is also returning to the MCU, not as Tony Stark but as Doctor Doom, a casting reveal announced at last year’s Comic-Con.
The film is directed by Joe and Anthony Russo, who have confirmed in interviews with Collider published on March 5, 2025, that they are filming primarily on soundstages to prevent leaks.
Fan speculation also continues around a potential return of Chris Evans as Steve Rogers. Although Evans previously stated he had no immediate plans to return, the appearance of Robert Downey Jr. in a different role has prompted renewed theories. As of now, there is no official word confirming or denying such rumors.
Anthony Mackie previously starred in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier and Captain America: Brave New World. The current fan response to his reported leadership shows how central the conversation about legacy and continuity has become to Marvel's evolving strategy.
The absence of an official trailer means fans are relying heavily on cast confirmations and speculation. Until Marvel makes a formal announcement, these fan conversations will likely continue shaping expectations for what’s next in the MCU.
