While not initially a major focus in the marketing, Tim Blake Nelson's return as Samuel Sterns/The Leader in *Captain America: Brave New World* has been known since at least 2022. His original appearance was in 2008's *The Incredible Hulk*, and this marks his long-awaited MCU comeback. While surprising to see The Leader positioned as a Captain America antagonist instead of a Hulk movie headliner, this unexpected pairing is precisely the point. The Leader represents a completely unforeseen challenge for Sam Wilson, making him a uniquely dangerous threat.
The Leader is undeniably Hulk's primary nemesis. Unlike most Hulk villains who seek to prove superior strength, Samuel Sterns is the antithesis of Bruce Banner. Gamma radiation exponentially amplified his intellect, making him as intellectually formidable as the Hulk is physically powerful. This places him among the Marvel Universe's most dangerous villains.
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2008's *The Incredible Hulk* established The Leader as a future MCU villain. Tim Blake Nelson portrayed a pre-transformation Samuel Sterns, initially an ally to Banner, a cellular biologist assisting the fugitive Banner in finding a cure. However, Sterns harbored a different ambition than Banner, believing Banner's blood held the key to eliminating disease and unlocking humanity's full potential. He was coerced by General Ross into aiding Emil Blonsky's transformation into the Abomination. The film concluded with Sterns' exposure to Banner's irradiated blood, leaving him in a state of transformation.
The ending of *The Incredible Hulk* clearly hinted at a sequel showcasing Sterns' transformation. However, Universal Pictures' partial ownership of the film rights has hindered Marvel Studios' development of a solo Hulk film. Consequently, Hulk's narrative has unfolded within the Avengers films and *Thor: Ragnarok*, delaying Nelson's return as The Leader. Mark Ruffalo's Bruce Banner's appearances in *She-Hulk: Attorney at Law* further complicated matters, with his departure and return introducing Skaar, his son.
Rumors suggested The Leader's appearance in *She-Hulk* before becoming the main antagonist in *Captain America: Brave New World*. While *She-Hulk* introduced the Wrecking Crew, their connection to The Leader remained unexplored. Nevertheless, trailers for *Brave New World* suggest The Leader's involvement with a different set of villains.
The Leader's presence in a Captain America sequel is intriguing. He seemingly holds no personal grudge against Banner. Any resentment might stem from his forced transformation, potentially directing his anger toward Ross and Blonsky. This could influence his role in *Brave New World*, with a desire for revenge against Ross, now President and portrayed by Harrison Ford. This could involve discrediting America on the global stage, leading to conflict with Captain America.
Director Julius Onah highlights The Leader's danger due to his unexpected nature as a villain for Sam Wilson. This crisis serves as Sam's first significant leadership test, requiring him to unite the Avengers (or a similar team) against a novel threat.
Sam Wilson's experience with formidable MCU villains doesn't prepare him for The Leader's intellectual prowess. *Captain America 4* sets the stage not for the next Avengers movie, but for the Thunderbolts movie, suggesting The Leader's potential to dismantle the Captain America symbol and usher in a darker MCU era.
What role do you think The Leader will play in *Captain America: Brave New World*? Share your theories in the comments below.
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