Anthony Mackie, born Anthony Dwane Mackie on September 23, 1978, in New Orleans, Louisiana, is an acclaimed actor best known for his role as Sam Wilson/Falcon in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He is the son of Willie Mackie Sr., a carpenter who ran a roofing business, and Martha Mackie.
Raised in a close-knit family, Mackie spent his childhood in the vibrant cultural backdrop of New Orleans, which fueled his creativity and passion for the arts.
Mackie attended Warren Easton Senior High School before transferring to the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts, where his talent for acting began to shine. He furthered his training at the prestigious Juilliard School in New York City, graduating from its Drama Division in 2001.
His formative years were marked by a drive to challenge himself, honing his craft in theater before transitioning to screen roles.
Mackie’s breakout came with the film 8 Mile (2002), where he played Papa Doc opposite Eminem. He quickly established himself as a versatile performer, taking on roles in critically acclaimed films such as The Hurt Locker (2008), which won the Academy Award for Best Picture, and Half Nelson (2006), where he starred alongside Ryan Gosling.
Mackie’s career reached new heights when he joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe in Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014), becoming the first Black actor to take on the mantle of Captain America in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier (2021).
Standing 5 feet 10 inches (1.78 meters) tall and weighing approximately 180 pounds (82 kilograms), Mackie possesses a strong, athletic build that complements his action-oriented roles. Known for his dedication to fitness, he often emphasizes the importance of physical preparation in his performances.
In his personal life, Mackie was previously married to Sheletta Chapital, his childhood sweetheart, with whom he shares four children. Despite their divorce in 2018, Mackie remains a dedicated father and keeps his family life private.
He resides in New Orleans, where he continues to embrace his roots, actively supporting local arts and cultural initiatives.
Mackie’s circle of friends includes Sebastian Stan, his co-star from the Marvel films and The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, Chris Evans, with whom he shares a strong camaraderie from their MCU collaboration, and Jeremy Renner, another close Marvel peer. These relationships reflect his affable personality and deep connections within the film industry.
With an estimated net worth of $8 million, Mackie has built a career that balances commercial success with meaningful, socially conscious roles.
He is also an entrepreneur, owning a New Orleans-based bar and pursuing projects that uplift his community. His ability to navigate both blockbuster franchises and independent films highlights his range and commitment to storytelling.
Anthony Mackie’s legacy as an actor and a role model continues to grow, inspiring audiences worldwide with his talent, humility, and dedication.
