The MCU needs to utilize one of its best actors after he received two 2025 Golden Globe nominations. While Marvel isn't always taken seriously by the film community, many of Hollywood's most renowned actors are part of the MCU. Several MCU actors have won or been nominated for major awards, including Cate Blanchett, Robert Downey Jr., Michael Douglas, Angela Bassett, Benedict Cumberbatch, Florence Pugh, Zoe Saldaña, Zendaya, Scarlett Johansson, Mark Ruffalo, etc. a backlog of award-winning talent that Marvel uses to its advantage.
However, many MCU actors go unnoticed. They are best known for their superhero roles and are not appreciated for their lesser-known performances that showcase their acting skills. One actor in this category is Sebastian Stan. Stan is primarily known for playing Bucky Barnes, aka the Winter Soldier, and he will reprise the role again in 2025. Rays*. However, Stan has an impressive filmography and recently received two Golden Globe nominations, proving he's an excellent actor that Marvel needs to embrace.
Sebastian Stan Nominated for Two 2025 Golden Globes
Sebastian Stan gave two award-worthy performances in 2024
Stan has been building an impressive cinematic resume outside of the MCU. Some of her highlights are her impressive supporting role in 2017 I, Tonyaand his full villain turn in 2022 Fresh. Most recently, 2024 was a stellar year for Stan's acting career with two lead performances that were nominated for a Golden Globe. One is in A different man as Edward, an actor with neurofibromatosis who undergoes an experimental treatment that drastically changes his appearance. Although he initially enjoys his new life, he realizes that his appearance is not the only thing that matters.
Stan also starred The Apprenticea film and a performance that are generating controversy. Stan plays Donald Trump in a film that chronicles his rise to prominence in New York real estate and his relationship with ruthless lawyer Roy Cohn. Any film featuring the new president will divide audiences, but the film depicts many moments from Trump's life that will have audiences talking. Stan's transformation from a younger, less confident Trump to the man viewers know now is impressive and deserves more attention.
Stan has yet to have a shining moment as Bucky Barnes
Marvel needs to create more chances for Stan to showcase his acting talent
Bucky Barnes is one of the oldest characters in the MCU. It has existed since 2011 Captain America: The First Avenger and has arguably undergone the most significant transformation of any character. He started out as Steve Rogers' right-hand man before being brainwashed into becoming the Winter Soldier. Seven decades later, he meets Steve again, who helps him break away from his Winter Soldier persona and start a new life. Bucky is finally in a good place and is expected to take more of a leadership role in Rays*.
Despite his long tenure in the MCU, Bucky has never had a moment to shine. Even in The Falcon and the Winter Soldierthe focus was primarily on Sam Wilson's development into Captain America. Stan had a great opportunity to showcase his acting talent when Bucky tells his neighbor he's responsible for his son's death, but the series cut that short. It's interesting to see how Bucky's character is evolving, and his next film should evolve him even further as he works with another team without Steve's guidance.
Thunderbolts* needs to make him a central character
Stan Could Shine as Leader of Marvel's New Team
Rays* It's a huge cast featuring many of Marvel's best anti-heroes, including Yelena Belova, Red Guardian, US Agent, Ghost, and Taskmaster. While director Jake Schreier's recent comments suggest that Yelena will have a central role in the film, Bucky also needs to be the main character. He's easily the most recognizable MCU hero in the cast, as he's been around the longest, and Bucky deserves to be a leading member of this team.
He is easily the most experienced of everyone on this team and can guide them in the right direction after working with Steve and Sam. Bucky is also a member of Congress, which means his leadership will be needed on this team and in US politics. His expanded role will give Bucky plenty of moments to continue his evolution as a character, but it will also give Stan plenty of opportunities to showcase his talent as an actor. Rays* will be released in 2025 and is expected to capitalize on Stan's success.
Rays*
- Release date
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May 2, 2025
- Director
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Jake Schreier
- Studio(s)
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Marvel Studios
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- Release date
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February 14, 2025
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Rays*
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- Release date
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July 25, 2025
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- Release date
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July 24, 2026