Summary
Sebastian Stan's Bucky Barnes could become the White Wolf and suit up as a new superhero inspired by Black Panther in the MCU's Phase 5.
Bucky Barnes' White Wolf identity, introduced in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, might take center stage in his next appearance in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
In the upcoming Thunderbolts film, where reformed villains and antiheroes are showcased, there is a possibility that Bucky Barnes could assume leadership and establish a connection with the Black Panther franchise through a visit to Wakanda.
A new fan art envisions Sebastian Stan's Bucky Barnes, inspired by the Black Panther, as a new hero in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. First introduced as James "Bucky" Barnes in Captain America: The First Avenger, he was portrayed as Steve Rogers' childhood friend and ally during World War II. After being believed to be dead in the 1940s, Barnes returned as the Winter Soldier under the control of HYDRA. However, he eventually broke free from their influence and became a respected hero in the MCU's Infinity Saga. In the upcoming Multiverse Saga, Barnes is expected to have an even more significant role, potentially adopting a new superhero persona. Recent artwork by bensolo_cup depicts Barnes in his White Wolf costume, a title bestowed upon him following his time in Wakanda between Captain America: Civil War and Avengers: Infinity War. Though the moniker has been seldom mentioned, Barnes' White Wolf character could embody a more heroic presence in the MCU's future, with his costume drawing inspiration from his time in Wakanda and resembling the Black Panther suit. Take a look at the stunning artwork below:
Bucky Barnes Can Finally Suit Up As White Wolf In The MCU’s Phase 5
Sebastian Stan recently portrayed Bucky Barnes in 2021's The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, a Disney+ series that delved deeper into his past as the Winter Soldier and his relationship with Steve Rogers and the Captain America legacy. Throughout the series, Barnes referenced his White Wolf persona and ultimately renounced his identity as the Winter Soldier, signaling the potential for him to fully embrace his future as the White Wolf. This transformation may take place in Barnes' upcoming appearance in MCU Phase 5's Thunderbolts, anticipated for release in 2024.
Thunderbolts will assemble a team of antiheroes and reformed villains to form a new MCU team, with Barnes hinted at being the team's unofficial leader, similar to how Steve Rogers led the Avengers in the MCU. Rumors suggest that Thunderbolts will have ties to the Black Panther franchise and there is speculation that the team may venture into Wakanda in search of vibranium. This could be a significant indication of Bucky Barnes adopting the persona of the Black Panther-inspired White Wolf, leaving his past as a villain behind and embracing a new heroic identity.