Carl Lumbly reprises his role as Isaiah Bradley in Captain America: Brave New World, the highly anticipated sequel to The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. Stepping back into the MCU, Lumbly brings depth and emotion to the powerful story of Bradley, a forgotten super soldier whose legacy is finally coming to light. With Brave New World, the next chapter unfolds, promising more revelations and high-stakes action.

With a career spanning decades, Lumbly has become a cornerstone of cinematic and television acting, known for his depth and versatility. His roles have ranged from groundbreaking series like Cagney & Lacey to voice acting for the animated Justice League. Now, he adds even more depth and complexity to his character, making his presence in the MCU more powerful than ever.

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As Captain America: Brave New World officially hit theaters last Friday (Feb.14), Lumbly expresses a profound connection with the film's release on Valentine's Day, noting, "I'm feeling that this is quite appropriate because I think there is a large message of love inside this film. And sometimes I think love requires bravery."

This perspective mirrors the ethos of his character, Isaiah Bradley, whose backstory and evolution embody themes of sacrifice, resilience, and the quest for justice. Lumbly's journey into the realm of acting was as unexpected as it has been fruitful.

"I have been privileged to be able to love acting. It's not something I thought I was going to do, but having discovered it and having it discover me – as it is with love – you don't always choose it, but you're surely lucky when you get it," he told Fandom Daily.  This passion is evident in every role he undertakes, especially in his layered portrayal of Isaiah Bradley, a character he approaches with deep empathy and understanding, regardless of their choices or path.

Isaiah Bradley's role in Lumbly's life began with an audition shrouded in secrecy, typical of many Marvel projects. Lumbly recalls the moment he was drawn to the character.

"So Isaiah Bradley, when he came into my life, it was love at first, without even knowing what his real name was. It wasn't until after I had gotten the offer to do the part that I learned first that his name was Isaiah Bradley and then the significance that he had in the Marvel world," he explained. 

The call to return to the character for Captain America: Brave New World was met with an unequivocal joy from Lumbly. He describes the moment with palpable excitement.

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"To say it was immediate, is short, is short-cutting it, it was, it was so joyful. My yes had occurred when we did, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier." His enthusiasm to revisit Isaiah Bradley underscores a deep commitment to the role and its continued narrative.

In discussing the evolution of Bradley and his own return to the character, Lumbly highlights the importance of representation and legacy.

"Yes, it's certainly exciting to know that you're coming back, that there will be continued life for a character that you're birthed, in a way, and that you get to continue to raise," he added.

The dynamic on set with fellow actors like Anthony Mackie, whom Lumbly praises for his leadership and presence, contributed to an enriching filming experience.

"Anthony Mackie is a born leader. I think with born leaders, they don't have to demand. They lead by example by making everyone else feel more comfortable," Lumbly notes. This collaborative environment fostered by Mackie and others, including director Julius, made the challenging aspects of filming manageable and ultimately triumphant.

As new generations engage with the Marvel Universe and discover characters like Isaiah Bradley, Lumbly hopes his portrayal imparts lessons of resilience and humanity.

"I guess I hope that when people look at Isaiah, they see two things. They see strength. They also see vulnerability and someone accountable for the decisions that he has made," he reflects. More profoundly, Lumbly desires viewers to recognize the enduring spirit of those like Isaiah, whose stories are often overlooked yet whose impacts are deeply felt.

Lumbly's return as Isaiah Bradley in Captain America: Brave New World is more than a continuation of a beloved character – it's a testament to the enduring power of storytelling to inspire, challenge, and transform. 

Photo Credit: Rodin Eckenroth / Getty Images for Disney