Summary
Recently, Marvel fans have been buzzing about Giancarlo Esposito’s role inCaptain America: Brave New World. Among the many theories circulating, one rumor seems to have a ring of truth to it.
Captain America: Brave New Worldis set to bring a fresh perspective to theCaptain Americafranchise, and with it,a host of new characters. In recent weeks, Giancarlo Esposito has presented Marvel fans with the intriguing challenge of guessing his role in the upcoming movie. It seems that some fans may have cracked the mystery.
Esposito has been teasing Marvel fans with subtle, yet very vague hints about his mysterious character. He has confirmed that the role is quite unpredictable, and recent set photos reveal little about the character’s identity. However, some fans believe they have figured out the villain’s identity.According to Alex P. on Twitter, Esposito might be playing the character Bushman, who has so far only appeared in Marvel Comics and has yet to be seen on screen.
The character has been described as “an antagonistic agent of chaos” and “a serious thorn in Sam Wilson’s side,” roles that Bushman could potentially fill. On set, Esposito was photographed in tactical gear, reportedly carrying three guns, three knives, an axe, and a black cape with brown lining. Raoul Bushman, also known simply as Bushman, is a supervillain and rival of Moon Knight. He first appeared in the 1980’sMoon Knight #1, and his existence was confirmed inthe first season of theMoon Knightseries. A former mercenary and soldier with a background in guerrilla warfare, Bushman is known for his brutality and combat skills. While this might seem like a random addition, it is worth noting that Marvel Studios enlistedMoon Knightwriter, Matthew Orton, to work on the reshoots forBrave New World. Although there are no immediate connections to theCaptain Americafranchise, this new movie might featureunpredictable and unexpected introductionsfrom the expansive Marvel Universe.
Apart from the Bushman theory,several other plausible theoriesare circulating about the identity of Esposito’s character. As there are connections betweenBrave New WorldandThe Falcon and the Winter Soldier, it makes sense that he could be playing the leader of the LAF, a criminal group that capitalized on the post-Blip chaos to boost their profits. A popular theory is that Esposito might be playing either Doctor Doom or Professor X. Considering that Marvel Studios is also working on aFantastic Fourreboot, this theory holds potential. Esposito as Professor X has long been a fan favorite, but this would not be much of a surprise. Another significant theory is that he is portraying Kang, as Marvel is reportedly seeking to recast the previous actor due to controversies. Other speculations floating around include General Reginald Fortean, a colleague of Thunderbolt Ross (played by Harrison Ford). Further rumors suggest the Serpent Society is somehow involved inBrave New World, Esposito could potentially be playing a member, especially considering his appearance in tactical gear. However, pinpointing a specific character remains challenging. For now, it is difficult to figure out his role, and fans will have to wait and see what surprises the next movie holds.
Captain America: Brave New Worldis scheduled to be released on July 19, 2025.
Captain America: Brave New World
Cast
Captain America: Brave New World (formerly titledNew World Order)marks Sam Wilson’s first MCU big-screen appearance as Steve Rogers' successor after receiving the suit and shield in Phase 4’s The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. Anthony Mackie returns as the titular Avenger alongside Danny Ramirez as Joaquin Torres, Carl Lumby as Isaiah Bradley, and Tim Blake Nelson as The Incredible Hulk’s former ally Samuel Sterns. Harrison Ford makes his MCU debut replacing the late William Hurt as Thaddeus Ross.
