AceShowbiz - Marvel's newest Captain America, Anthony Mackie, confronted the issue of award recognition in the entertainment industry. In a candid interview with Esquire magazine, the "Captain America: Brave New World" actor spoke openly about his past award season experiences.

He believes that he has delivered several performances worthy of recognition, but has often been overlooked. "It's always apropos for me when awards season comes up. Because I know I've done at least four performances that could have been nominated - if not for a Golden Globe, then an Oscar or an Emmy," he said.

"Captain America is my Oscar," Mackie declared. "Because I've been overlooked so many times in my career."

The significance of Mackie's role as the iconic hero extends far beyond personal validation. The actor emphasized the broader cultural impact of his casting, stating that it's "just as important for black kids to see a Black Captain America as it is for white kids."

Growing up, Mackie recalled, "My favorite hero was green. It wasn't about race or anything. It was about him being a good guy trying to do the right thing." He added that it's vital for kids of all races to "be able to watch and have someone to look up to no matter what they look like, and see that that package comes with a good human being as opposed to what they've been perceived as by everyone else."

Mackie's journey with Marvel Studios, which began in 2014's "Captain America: The Winter Soldier," has positioned him for a potentially long-term presence in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Despite the challenges of portraying Captain America, Mackie is committed to the role for "a solid ten years."

"Captain America: Brave New World," directed by Julius Onah and co-starring Harrison Ford, is scheduled to premiere on February 14.

Mackie also addressed the politicization of the film, which features Ford as the U.S. president who transforms into Red Hulk. He expressed his hope that audiences can "chill the f*** out" and enjoy the film for what it is.