Sam Wilson (Marvel Cinematic Universe)

Samuel Thomas Wilson is a fictional character portrayed by Anthony Mackie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) media franchise, based on the Marvel Comics character of the same name and known commonly by his original alias, the Falcon, and later as Captain America. Wilson is initially depicted as a veteran United States Air Force Pararescueman who specializes in the use of an advanced jet pack with articulated wings. A skilled combatant and tactician, Wilson becomes a close friend of Steve Rogers after helping him during the Hydra uprising, and is later recruited by him to join the Avengers.

During the fallout related to the Sokovia Accords, Wilson sides with Rogers and becomes a fugitive. He returns to the fold during the conflict against Thanos, falling victim to the Blip. After being restored to life, he is appointed by the now-retired Rogers to become the new Captain America, and is given a specially made version of the iconic shield. Believing he cannot live up to the mantle, Wilson surrenders the shield to the U.S. government, which appoints John Walker as Captain America. During the ensuing conflict with Walker and the Flag Smashers, Wilson, with assistance from Bucky Barnes, finally accepts the title and passes on his own mantle as Falcon to Joaquin Torres. As Captain America, Wilson comes into conflict with Thaddeus Ross, who is being manipulated by Dr. Samuel Sterns. After stopping Sterns and saving Ross, Wilson begins to reassemble the Avengers.

Wilson is a central figure in the MCU, having appeared in seven films as of 2025. He is a primary protagonist of the miniseries The Falcon and the Winter Soldier (2021). The character is the first black Captain America in the MCU, and Mackie's portrayal of Wilson has been met with positive reception. He starred as the titular character in the film Captain America: Brave New World (2025)