Why Is Hulk Villain The Leader in Captain America: Brave New World?

Tim Blake Nelson's return as Samuel Sterns/The Leader in Captain America: Brave New World is a significant MCU development. While initially introduced in 2008's The Incredible Hulk, his transformation into The Leader was left unresolved. This sequel unexpectedly positions him as a Captain America antagonist, rather than a Hulk adversary.

The Leader, Hulk's primary nemesis, possesses intellect surpassing even the Hulk's strength. His gamma-radiation-enhanced intelligence makes him a formidable threat across the Marvel Universe. In The Incredible Hulk, Sterns, initially an ally to Bruce Banner, secretly aimed to exploit Banner's blood for scientific advancement. His accidental exposure to irradiated blood initiated his transformation.

Marvel's reluctance to produce another solo Hulk film, due to Universal's partial rights, explains the delayed Leader storyline. Hulk's narrative has continued through Avengers films and Thor: Ragnarok. Rumors suggested The Leader's appearance in She-Hulk, but this didn't materialize.

The Leader's presence in Captain America 4 is intriguing. His potential resentment towards General Ross, now President Ross (Harrison Ford), could drive his vengeful actions against the American government, inadvertently targeting Captain America. Director Julius Onah highlights The Leader's unexpected nature as a key element of the conflict. This unexpected threat will test Sam Wilson's leadership, forcing him to unite a new generation of Avengers in a post-blip, post-Thanos world.

Sam Wilson's past battles have prepared him for formidable foes, but The Leader's intellectual prowess presents a unique challenge. The film's setup suggests a darker era for the MCU, potentially culminating in the Thunderbolts movie.

The Leader's role in Captain America: Brave New World remains a subject of speculation, promising a compelling narrative arc.