Before his role in Black Widow, David Harbour says Red Guardian was Russia’s version of Captain America. After eleven years of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, 2020 will mark the beginning of Marvel Studios’ plans for after the Infinity Saga. Phase 4 of the MCU is filled with some exciting movies and the first of many Disney+ shows set to introduce new characters to the world. This will all begin with the long-awaited solo film for Scarlett Johansson’s Black Widow, which will take place in the past, after her death in Avengers: Endgame.

Black Widow is set to shed more light on the spy’s backstory in what may be her final appearance, but it will also introduce viewers to new characters who can potentially live on in the MCU. One of them is Alexei Shostakov, aka Red Guardian, played by Stranger Things star David Harbour. Fans got their first glimpse at the Russian in the first trailer for Black Widow, as he is broken out of prison and puts on his old costume after being reunited with Natasha. But, with many not yet knowing the full story for Red Guardian, Harbour has clarified that Black Widow is sticking close to the source material when it comes to why Red Guardian was created.

In a recent interview with The Wrap, Harbour reiterated that Red Guardian was intended to be Russia’s own version of Captain America. This is a key part of Alexei’s origin in the comics and made him see Steve Rogers as his natural rival, leading to the two of them fighting. While it is unlikely he will fight Captain America in Black Widow, Harbour shared how Red Guardian was an emblem of hope for Russia, much like Cap was for the United States.

Marvel sticking to the comics for Red Guardian’s origin isn’t terribly surprising and has been hinted at before. With a special look at Black Widow slated to arrive shortly, it may not be too long before more specifics on Red Guardian’s past are confirmed. This could also shed more light on what else Harbour teased in the phrase “Alexei’s relationship with Black Widow.” The two were married in the comics, which has led to theories that Black Widow could reveal the same connection exists in the MCU. But, Harbour teased he is more of a “fatherly figure” to Natasha, which could indicate he helped raise or mentor the former Russian spy.

He’s this guy who is closely linked to Natasha back in the day. I don’t think it’s been quite revealed exactly how, but I think you can see in the family dynamic that he was a bit of a fatherly figure to her. And a number of years go by and he’s past his prime. So he gets back into his superhero outfit, and it still fits, but it’s a little tighter than before. I think the great thing about the Red Guardian is he really is– he was the Captain America of his day for Russia. And he was the great hope of Russia, in a certain sense.

Whatever Red Guardian’s past might be, there’s already a contingent of fans that hope he will have a future in the MCU after Black Widow. His comedic nature was a highlight of the first Black Widow trailer. Alexei will have to survive his showdown with Taskmaster, though, if additional MCU appearances are going to happen, which is easier said than done. So, whether this is the first of many films or a one-time role, hopefully Black Widow gives the Red Guardian plenty to do.

More: MCU Mysteries Black Widow’s Solo Movie Can Solve

Source: The Wrap

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