Sebastian Stan, known for portraying the Winter Soldier in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, has shared insights into his career challenges before landing the iconic role of James "Bucky" Barnes. In an interview with Vanity Fair, Stan revealed that a timely $65,000 residuals payment from his role as Blaine in the 2010 film Hot Tub Time Machine played a pivotal role in sustaining his career during a difficult period.
"I was actually struggling with work," Stan admitted. "I had just gotten off the phone with my business manager, who told me I was saved by $65,000 that came in residuals from Hot Tub Time Machine."
This financial lifeline came just before he was cast as Bucky Barnes in Captain America: The First Avenger in 2011, where he starred alongside Chris Evans. Marvel Studios' president, Kevin Feige, expressed confidence in Stan's potential for the role, despite his relative obscurity at the time.
"You could see that he has so much inside him and so much behind his eyes. I’ll never forget that," Feige remarked to Vanity Fair. "I said to Stephen Broussard, who was one of the producers on Captain America, 'He’s going to be a good Bucky, but he’s going to be a great Winter Soldier.'"
Stan's portrayal of the Winter Soldier has since become a cornerstone of the MCU. He reprised his role in several subsequent films, including Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014), Captain America: Civil War (2016), multiple Avengers movies, and the recent Captain America: Brave New World. Fans can look forward to seeing him again in the upcoming Thunderbolts. Additionally, Stan's name was included in the cast reveal for Avengers: Doomsday, indicating that Bucky Barnes will continue to be a significant presence in the MCU.
