Sebastian Stan: Saved by $65K Residuals Before Winter Soldier Role

Sebastian Stan has opened up about the career challenges he faced before landing his iconic role as the Winter Soldier in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

In an interview with Vanity Fair, Stan shared that a $65,000 residuals payment from his role in the 2010 film Hot Tub Time Machine was a financial lifeline for him. Before becoming James "Bucky" Barnes in Captain America: The First Avenger in 2011, Stan portrayed the antagonist Blaine in the sci-fi comedy.

"I was actually struggling with work," Stan admitted. "I had just gotten off the phone with my business manager, who told me I was saved by $65,000 that came in residuals from Hot Tub Time Machine."

Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige praised Stan's casting, noting his potential even though he was relatively unknown at the time. "You could see that he has so much inside him and so much behind his eyes. I’ll never forget that," Feige remarked to Vanity Fair. "I said to Stephen Broussard, who was one of the producers on Captain America, 'He’s going to be a good Bucky, but he’s going to be a great Winter Soldier.'"

Stan's portrayal of the Winter Soldier has since become a staple in the MCU. He reprised his role in Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014), Captain America: Civil War (2016), several Avengers films, and the recent Captain America: Brave New World. Fans can look forward to seeing him again in the upcoming Thunderbolts. Additionally, Stan's name was included in the cast reveal for Avengers: Doomsday, indicating that Bucky will continue to be a significant part of the MCU's future.