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Sebastian Stan reveals how Bucky Barnes' Winter Soldier arc in the MCU has connected him with veterans and their own mental health issues
Struggling veterans have thanked Sebastian Stan for his portrayal of Marvel’s Bucky, which has helped them cope with their own mental health issues
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Sometimes a film performance is so impactful that it can help someone overcome their trauma. For some people, feeling seen goes a long way, and Bucky Barnes makes people feel seen. When Sebastian Stan took on the role for the 2011 film Captain America: The First Avenger, he had no idea what kind of impact he would have. Throughout his time in the MCU, we’ve seen Bucky fight in World War II, become a brainwashed puppet for HYDRA, reclaim his life, and find redemption. During an appearance on Marc Maron’s WTF Podcast, Stan spoke about how Bucky’s journey has resonated with fans.
“The thing about the character is that he actually has a lot of emotional and mental baggage that he overcomes, and he has to make peace with his past. A lot of people, especially vets for instance, have come up to me and they tell me that the character has helped them deal with depression, addiction, and PTSD. From that standpoint it’s very fulfilling.”
Stan noted that in many ways he’s become a motivational speaker.
“I’ve always been very open about my own struggles in a way, because I felt it’s what keeps me connected to the planet. I don’t have it figured out. I’m trying to do this as best as I can as everyone else. For the most part, I think that’s helped people. I try to speak openly about my struggles.”
His performance as Bucky is so convincing that some fans grew concerned about Stan’s mental health.
“I had somebody come up to me on the street one time, and the intention was good, but I didn’t know how to deal with it, because they came up and said, ‘I just want to make sure you’re okay.’ And I said, ‘I really am okay.’”
Thunderbolts (Stan’s next MCU project) is currently in post-production and is scheduled to be released on May 2, 2025.
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