Sebastian Stan, the actor who brought Bucky Barnes, aka The Winter Soldier, to life in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), has a message for the franchise’s critics: Marvel movies matter. In a candid and emotional interview with Variety, the 42-year-old star reflected on his journey within the MCU, defended the significance of superhero films, and gave a sneak peek into his upcoming film, Thunderbolts.
Stan, who first appeared in 2011’s Captain America: The First Avenger, shared his frustration with those who seem to enjoy bashing Marvel movies. “It’s become really convenient to pick on [Marvel films],” he remarked. With a voice tinged with both passion and frustration, Stan defended the franchise, explaining that it’s more than just big-budget blockbusters. “Everyone’s got an opinion, and that’s fine,” he said. But to Stan, Marvel is a vital part of Hollywood’s machinery. “They’re a big part of what contributes to this business and allows us to have smaller movies as well,” he elaborated, with the weight of over a decade in the MCU clear in his words.
It wasn’t just about defending the franchise, though. Stan explained that making movies—especially ones that connect with millions of fans across the globe—is far from easy. “It’s just f—— hard to make a good movie over and over again,” he confessed. The exhaustion of repeating success, the challenge of keeping stories fresh, was palpable in his voice. You could feel his protectiveness for Marvel, as he said, “The intention is really f—— good.”
Looking ahead, Stan teased Thunderbolts, set to release next summer. The film, directed by Jake Schreier, is shaping up to be an unconventional addition to the MCU. Stan revealed a glimpse into the plot, comparing the ragtag group of anti-heroes he leads to characters from One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest. In both stories, a chaotic ensemble somehow finds unity. The film will star some of Marvel’s newer faces, including Florence Pugh and David Harbour, along with Stan’s Barnes, and promises to explore the dynamics between these morally gray characters.
With a career deeply intertwined with the MCU, Stan admitted he’s always searching for new ways to challenge himself. Beyond Thunderbolts, he’s also starring in two highly anticipated films this year, A Different Man and The Apprentice. Each project, though wildly different, shows Stan’s desire to step out of his comfort zone and evolve as an actor.
Stan’s heartfelt defense of Marvel and his excitement for what’s to come highlight a man not only committed to his craft but also to the massive community that has grown around these films. In the larger-than-life world of superheroes, it’s a reminder that behind every mask, there’s a real person—one who’s dedicated, passionate, and constantly pushing the limits of storytelling.
Marvel’s magic continues to pulse through Hollywood, and Sebastian Stan is here to make sure we don’t forget why it matters.