Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige has identified the absence of Chris Evans as a key factor in the underwhelming global box office results of Captain America: Brave New World. Speaking during a roundtable with Deadline and other media outlets, Feige suggested that the film’s disappointing earnings were linked to being the first Captain America movie without Evans, though he did not elaborate further on this reasoning.
Chris Evans’ character, Steve Rogers, famously passes the mantle of Captain America to Sam Wilson in Avengers: Endgame, choosing instead to remain in an alternate timeline with Peggy Carter (Hayley Atwell). This transition marked a significant shift in the franchise’s storyline leading into the latest film.
New Chapter for Sam Wilson in Captain America: Brave New World
Directed by Julius Onah, known for The Cloverfield Paradox, the movie centers on Anthony Mackie’s Sam Wilson as he embraces his new role as Captain America. The narrative features supporting characters such as original super-soldier Isaiah Bradley (Carl Lumbly), Joaquin Torres (Danny Ramirez), and others. The cast also includes Tim Blake Nelson, Rosa Salazar, Liv Tyler, and Harrison Ford, who portrays Thaddeus Ross, later known as Red Hulk.
The film’s production budget was approximately $180 million. Despite grossing about $415.1 million worldwide, the total revenue fell short compared to previous Captain America installments. For context, 2014’s The Winter Soldier earned $714.1 million globally, while 2016’s Civil War surpassed $1.15 billion.
Multiple Factors Behind the Film’s Disappointing Box Office Returns
While Chris Evans’ absence was highlighted by Feige as a major reason, other issues may have contributed to the movie’s struggles. Reviews for Brave New World have been mixed, holding a 46% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, which may have affected audience interest. Additionally, some moviegoers might have opted to skip theaters due to Marvel’s recent trend of releasing new titles on Disney Plus roughly 90 days post-premiere.
Insight from Industry Voices and Upcoming MCU Projects
Anthony Mackie shared that Chris Evans texted him with a “Good job” message following the premiere of Captain America: Brave New World, reflecting some camaraderie despite Evans’ absence. Meanwhile, Evans himself has stated he is firmly not returning for Avengers: Doomsday but remains in frequent contact with the Russo brothers, who directed the original Captain America films.
“Good job” —Anthony Mackie
“He’s definitely, really, totally not coming back for Avengers: Doomsday, but he talks to directors the Russo Brothers ‘all the time'” —Chris Evans
The future of the MCU remains rich with new movies and shows, as Marvel Studios continues expanding its universe beyond the Captain America saga.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why did Chris Evans quit Marvel?
A. Evans decided not to return as Captain America after his contract ended. His choice wasn’t just because of that; he also struggled with social anxiety and wanted to try new projects, which heavily influenced his decision to leave the franchise.
Q. Did Ana de Armas like Chris Evans?
A. De Armas shared that when they met while filming “Knives Out” five years back, they connected instantly. She mentioned they both genuinely liked each other and were easygoing people. According to her, their relationship is naturally maintained without much effort, as the friendship exists naturally.
Q. Who did Chris Evans marry?
A. On September 9, 2023, Evans tied the knot with Portuguese actress Alba Baptista in a private ceremony at their Cape Cod home in Massachusetts.
Q. Did Chris Evans date Selena Gomez?
A. Rumors about Selena Gomez and Chris Evans dating spread due to misunderstood hints. In 2021, fans became like detectives after one Instagram follow caused a stir. Chris Evans, known for playing Captain America, followed Selena Gomez, sparking wild dating speculation among fans.
