Sebastian Stan, known for his portrayal of the Winter Soldier in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, recently opened up about his career challenges before landing the iconic role of James "Bucky" Barnes. In an interview with Vanity Fair, Stan revealed that a residuals payment of $65,000 from his role as Blaine in the 2010 film Hot Tub Time Machine was crucial in sustaining him during a period of struggle.
"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."
This financial lifeline came just before he starred as Bucky Barnes in 2011's Captain America: The First Avenger alongside Chris Evans, who played the titular hero.
Marvel Studios' president, Kevin Feige, shared with Vanity Fair their confidence in casting Stan, despite his relative obscurity 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. "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 become a fan favorite, leading him to reprise the role in multiple films including Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014), Captain America: Civil War (2016), various Avengers movies, and the recent Captain America: Brave New World. He is also set to return in the upcoming film Thunderbolts. Furthermore, Stan's inclusion in the cast reveal for Avengers: Doomsday suggests that fans can look forward to seeing more of Bucky in the MCU.
