
Sebastian Stan is widely recognized for his role as Bucky Barnes in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). His character first appeared in Captain America: The First Avenger (2011), establishing a fan-favorite narrative arc that characterized Bucky as a loyal friend turned conflicted soldier. Bucky Barnes has evolved significantly throughout the MCU, making notable appearances in films such as Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014) and Avengers: Endgame (2019).
Related: Plot Twist: Is Sebastian Stan’s Bucky Barnes Truly Out of the Upcoming MCU?
Since his portrayal of Bucky Barnes, Stan has gone on to appear in a number of popular films and television shows, including ABC’s hit show Once Upon a Time, I, Tonya (2017), and Dumb Money (2023). Most recently, he took on the complex role of former President Donald Trump in Briarcliff Entertainment’s The Apprentice.
The Apprentice explores Trump’s rise to power in the turbulent 1970s and 80s, showcasing his relationship with infamous lawyer Roy Cohn, portrayed by Jeremy Strong. The film’s timing, with its release close to the upcoming U.S. presidential election, has spurred conversations about its potential influence on voters.
Related: Sebastian Stan’s Bucky Battles Trump Ghosts in ‘Thunderbolts*’
Sebastian Stan has made headlines with recent remarks on Donald Trump, branding the former president as “hypocritical” during the BFI London Film Festival. Stan’s comments were stirred by Trump’s attempts to censor the film, contradicting his claims of supporting free speech.
“If you have any inkling of interest, go and really ask yourself: ‘Who is this man? Do you really know? Do you really trust this person to lead a country?’ He’s been trying to censor this movie, and at the same time, he claims that he acknowledges free speech … I can’t think of anything more hypocritical. So at the end of the day, it’s about him as a character. Forget the politics and just go in there and use your instinct and ask yourself: Do you trust this man? That’s what the movie is about.”
Trump has vocally criticized The Apprentice and Stan’s portrayal of him, disparaging the film as “a cheap, defamatory and politically disgusting hatchet job.” He implied that the filmmakers aimed to manipulate voters ahead of the election.
In a Truth Social post, the former President wrote:
“It’s a cheap, defamatory and politically disgusting hatchet job, put out right before the 2024 Presidential Election, to try and hurt the Greatest Political Movement in the History of our Country.”
The Apprentice is currently in select theaters nationwide.
Do you think The Apprentice should have been released at a different time? Do you think it was meant to influence the election? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.