A new report alleges Marvel Studios originally planned to make Captain America African-American, offering the iconic lead role to Will Smith before casting Chris Evans in the part. Though Smith turned it down over concerns about long-term commitments, the revelation fuels intense speculation about how profoundly different the Marvel Cinematic Universe may have looked with a black Steve Rogers at its center right from the start.

Will Smith Was Offered Captain America Role

According to insider sources, Marvel Studios chief Kevin Feige’s initial intention was for Captain America to be African-American. To that end, the role was reportedly first offered to Will Smith, but he ultimately passed on the opportunity after much consideration.

Will Smith slapping Chris Rock at the Oscars

Had Smith accepted, it would have marked a landmark casting move for Marvel finally bringing a black leading hero to the big screen and a defining moment in on-screen representation. But Smith apparently still had lingering hesitations about diving in.

Will Smith Didn’t Want to Sign Long Contract

While he is said to have seriously considered the monumental opportunity, Smith allegedly decided to decline due to Marvel adamantly requiring all stars sign extremely lengthy multi-picture deals spanning many years and films. The role eventually went to Chris Evans as originally white Steve Rogers when Smith passed.

Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith

Smith was apparently wary of committing unconditionally to so many Marvel films shooting over such a dense long-term timeframe, which ultimately led him to reluctantly give up the historic opportunity. But his refusal left the door wide open for Evans to step in as the incarnation fans know.

Alternate Universe With Black Captain America

Had Smith braved the lengthy contract to accept the offer, the entire history and landscape of the MCU would have been radically altered with a black Captain America anchoring The Avengers core from day one, sending cultural shockwaves.

Will Smith and his family

A black Steve Rogers played by globally adored megastar Will Smith would have profoundly reshaped the whole trajectory of Marvel’s lucrative cinematic universe. But the rigid long-term agreement Marvel demanded gave Smith cold feet, so the societally impactful chance slipped away.

If insider reports are accurate, Will Smith starring as a black incarnation of Captain America would have significantly redefined and diversified the iconic character right from his introduction. But Smith’s hesitancy around Marvel’s contract requirements allowed Chris Evans to ultimately wield the shield for the traditional portrayal fans know.