7 Best MCU Characters Introduced in Captain America Movies (#1 Isn’t Steve Rogers)

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The Captain America films are among the most popular and important in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and they’ve given us some of its best characters. These movies tell the origin stories of heroes like Steve Rogers (Chris Evans), Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan), and Peggy Carter (Hayley Atwell), and showcase crucial events in the MCU’s history. From Captain America: The First Avenger (2011) to Captain America: Brave New World (2025), the films follow Steve Rogers’ journey as a hero and leader, ultimately leading to Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie) taking on the role. What’s great about the Captain America movies is that they consistently offer exciting superhero action, combined with elements of romance and thrilling spy stories.

Here’s a ranking, from least to most impressive, of seven characters who first appeared in the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Captain America films.

7) Peggy Carter

Peggy Carter was one of the first characters audiences met alongside Steve Rogers when he joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe. In Captain America: The First Avenger, she worked with Rogers as a skilled codebreaker fighting against HYDRA, and the two developed a romantic connection as he became a super soldier. Carter is a smart and courageous character who plays a vital role in the MCU’s World War II stories. While her main story happens in Captain America: The First Avenger, the multiverse has allowed her story to continue in shows like What If…? and the film Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. Although the original Peggy Carter has passed away in the main MCU timeline, her influence continues to be felt.

6) Bucky Barnes

Bucky Barnes, first introduced in Captain America: The First Avenger, has undergone a compelling journey of redemption that continues to unfold in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. As Captain America’s close friend, Bucky was a loyal companion and key ally in the fight against HYDRA. After being captured and brainwashed, he became the dangerous Winter Soldier and suffered greatly. Throughout his time in the MCU, Bucky has consistently tried to atone for the actions he was forced to commit. Whether fighting with the Avengers or leading a team of reformed villains, his story is full of both thrilling action and emotionally powerful moments.

5) Sam Wilson

Sam Wilson, played by Anthony Mackie, has become a vital part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and it’s fun to revisit his first appearance in Captain America: The Winter Soldier. He initially meets Steve Rogers while Rogers is jogging in Washington, D.C. Later, as a U.S. Air Force veteran, Sam helps Captain America and Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson) when they’re forced to go on the run. Becoming known as Falcon, he joins the Avengers and quickly becomes a key figure in Captain America: The Winter Soldier. Sam’s journey to becoming the new Captain America has proven his strength of character, and he’s established himself as the ideal leader for the Avengers moving forward.

4) Spider-Man

Spider-Man, played by Tom Holland, is arguably the most famous hero in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Interestingly, he wasn’t introduced with his own movie; instead, he first appeared in Captain America: Civil War. This was a smart move, as it allowed audiences to get a feel for his fun personality and incredible powers before he starred in his first solo film, Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017).

Spider-Man, played by Tom Holland, was brought onto Tony Stark’s side in the conflict with Captain America, quickly proving to be a valuable and fun addition to the team. One of his most memorable moments involves playfully taking and using Captain America’s shield. Since then, he’s become a major character in the Avengers movies and starred in his own trilogy of films, solidifying his place as one of the franchise’s key heroes. Spider-Man is a well-developed character, both as a person and a superhero, and his story in the MCU seems far from over.

3) Steve Rogers

With the introduction of Steve Rogers, Captain America: The First Avenger fundamentally changed the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Though initially deemed unfit for military service, Rogers embodies honor and selflessness, leading to his transformation into a Super Soldier to fight against Nazi Germany. He ultimately makes a devastating sacrifice, freezing himself in time and awakening in the present day, a world completely foreign to him. Despite the shock of time travel and the loss of everyone he knew, Rogers remains fiercely dedicated to protecting others and fighting for what’s right. Whether in battle with his iconic suit and shield or during important negotiations, he always wears his heart on his sleeve. Though Captain America is no longer with us in the MCU, his impact and legacy continue to be felt throughout the timeline.

2) Black Panther

Black Panther, a major hit in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, was first introduced in Captain America: Civil War (2016). Chadwick Boseman’s portrayal of King T’Challa, the Black Panther, shows a truly great leader protecting his nation, Wakanda, and later helping the Avengers fight Thanos. He first becomes the Black Panther after his father’s death, appearing in Captain America: Civil War as a skilled and determined fighter. This initial appearance effectively set the stage for his more complex character in the Black Panther movie and beyond. T’Challa is a memorable hero who quickly became a fan favorite, making a strong impression even in Captain America: Civil War.

1) Wanda Maximoff

I first saw Wanda Maximoff, or the Scarlet Witch as she’d become known, hinted at after the credits of Captain America: The Winter Soldier back in 2014. It was a quick scene showing her and her brother Pietro locked up in a HYDRA facility, but even then, you could see her powers – she moved some blocks with her mind and then just…blew them up! She officially joined the MCU in Avengers: Age of Ultron a year later, and I’ve been fascinated by her ever since. What’s really cool is how complex she is – she’s not just a hero or a villain, but someone capable of both, and that makes her so compelling to watch.

Wanda makes the courageous decision to leave Ultron and side with the Avengers, despite being deeply affected by past trauma and loss. Her transformation into the Scarlet Witch is a turning point, and her unique combination of strength and vulnerability has made her a compelling character for audiences. Throughout her story in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Wanda’s complex personality shines through, and fans are eager to see what the future holds for the Scarlet Witch.

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2025-12-06 01:16