Does Captain America Consider Falcon to be a Close Friend?

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), there is a deep and meaningful relationship between Captain America (Steve Rogers) and Sam Wilson, also known as Falcon. Many fans wonder how Sam measures up to Bucky Barnes in the heart and mind of Steve Rogers. While Bucky and Steve share a long-standing and unbreakable bond, does Sam earn a place as a close friend in Steve's life?

Comparing Bucky and Sam: A Different Kind of Bond

Steve Rogers and Bucky Barnes share a deep, historical bond rooted in their experiences during World War II and their shared history growing up together. This connection is often portrayed as a brotherly bond, and their relationship is one of the most iconic in the MCU. Steve trusts Bucky completely, and their shared past provides a foundation of mutual understanding and support.

Sam Wilson and Steve Rogers, on the other hand, develop a mutual friendship later in the MCU, primarily within the context of modern times. Their relationship is built on mutual respect, camaraderie, and shared values, especially during their time fighting together as the Avengers. While the bond may not have the same historical depth as his relationship with Bucky, Steve still values Sam as a trusted ally and friend.

From Subtle Support to a Close Ally

In the comics and films, particularly in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, Steve's passing of the shield to Sam signifies his belief in Sam as a worthy successor and a close friend. This act highlights the strength of their bond. Steve does not see Sam and Bucky as the same type of friends; he recognizes both of them as fundamentally important to his life.

While Steve may consider Bucky to be his best friend, Sam is also valued as a close companion. Sam was the modern-day version of Bucky before Bucky returned, which is why Sam now holds the shield. Sam supports Steve in the way Bucky did, making him a pivotal figure in Steve's life.

Respect and Trust

Steve Rogers trusts Sam deeply, just as he does with Bucky. Sam's actions and support in critical situations, such as saving Steve and Natasha from The Winter Soldier and Hydra agents in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, demonstrate the respect Steve has for him. It was Sam who initially supported Steve in CAPW, while the other heroes joined later. Sam's bond with Steve is unbreakable, much like the bond between Bucky and Steve.

Moreover, the events of The Falcon and the Winter Soldier show that Sam has a special connection with Steve. For example, when Falcon fell from the Helicarrier, Steve made a decision to save him instead of carrying out the plan. Steve returned to the scene when he saw that Sam was alive. This act of trust and affection is a testament to their friendship.

Sam and Steve share a common understanding of the burden of their roles as protectors, having both lost loved ones. Sam had lost a friend before, Riley, which creates a shared emotional bond between them. However, Steve's relationship with Bucky is unparalleled in its depth and history, while Sam’s bond with Steve is significant but in a different way.

Secretly, only Sam knew that Steve was going to settle with Peggy Carter at the end of Infinity War. This trust and the shared understanding of personal matters further solidify Sam's place as a close friend to Steve.

Though not to the same extent as Bucky, Sam Wilson is indeed one of Steve Rogers's closest friends. Their relationship is a valuable and meaningful part of Steve's life, built on respect, trust, and shared experiences. Both Bucky and Sam hold a special place in Steve's heart, each for different reasons.