Chris Evans played the role of Captain America for eight years. He became a superstar thanks to this role in the MCU, and a darling of the spectators. Yet he almost missed out on the role of his life. Fortunately Robert Downey Jr. was there.
Chris Evans: eight years of Captain America
In 2005, Chris Evans made his first foray into the world of Marvel superheroes with Fantastic Four. Indeed, he is camping one of the main roles, that of Johnny Storm aka The human torch. Two years later, he finds this character again in the sequel: Fantastic Four and the Silver Surfer. But it’s in 2011 that he becomes a superstar by landing the role of his life: that of Captain America in the film Captain America : First Avenger.
A long story that will last for eight years. Indeed, Chris Evans will take back his shield on the occasion of six films. His last memorable appearance dates back to 2019 in Avengers : Endgame.
Thank you Robert Downey Jr.
In addition to playing Iron Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Robert Downey Jr. also had a big role to play behind the scenes. He notably convinced Mark Ruffalo to accept the role of Hulk. And that’s not all.
Indeed, we learn in the book The Story of Marvel Studios: The Making of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (via CBR) that Robert Downey Jr. is there for many in Chris Evans’ choice as Captain America.
Originally, producers Kevin Feige and Stephen Broussard had set their sights on Sebastian Stan for the role (he will eventually join the MCU as the Winter Soldier). But Robert Downey Jr., helped by his producer friend Joel Silver, convinced Chris Evans to audition, being convinced that he was the perfect actor for this role.
However, Chris Evans was not reassured about the deal of several films that he was about to sign. An element that frightened the performer of Steve Rogers, as he said:
It’s a very heavy commitment to make these Marvel movies. Initially, the offer was nine films, we finally made six. But six films can be a lot of years. I was apprehensive that engagement would require more than what I could offer. But in the end, it was the best decision of my life.
–
