In the latest installment of the MCU, Thunderbolts*, avid fans have spotted an Easter egg that recalls a significant moment involving Captain America. This reference is particularly poignant considering it was not intended by the creators, adding a layer of irony to the scene. Following the events of Avengers: Endgame, where Chris Evans’ Steve Rogers concluded his journey as Captain America by passing his shield to Sam Wilson, the transition to Sam’s character hasn’t been entirely smooth. Feeling unworthy of the legacy, Sam chose to relinquish the shield to the government.
The government appointed Army Captain John Walker as the new Captain America, but his time in this role was marred by public disfavor. Walker’s aggressive demeanor and controversial actions, including a shocking scene where he used the shield to kill a man in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, have led many fans to see him as a flawed replacement rather than the heroic figure the title suggests. Walker is not strictly a villain, but he certainly has a considerable journey ahead if he wishes to be deemed a true hero.
John Walker Echoes Steve Rogers’ ‘On Your Left’ in Thunderbolts*
A Nod to Steve and Sam’s Dynamic
In a moment that may remind fans of Captain America’s classic charm, Walker finds himself in a high-stakes situation in Thunderbolts*. While trapped in Valentina’s self-destructing vault alongside Yelena, Ava, and Bob, they devise a plan for Ava to phase through a wall to escape. To enable this, they must first disable the power dampening her abilities by breaking a panel.
While the team discusses their strategy, Walker takes a bold initiative and prepares to smash through the panel with his shield. Just before he does, he announces his impending movement with the line, “on your left.” This line is famously known as a friendly quip between Steve Rogers and Sam Wilson, illustrating their camaraderie, previously featured in Captain America: The Winter Soldier and later in Avengers: Endgame.
Wyatt Russell Reveals the Origin of ‘On Your Left’ in Thunderbolts*
An Unintentional Easter Egg
The phrase “on your left” stands as a testament to the partnership between Steve and Sam, symbolizing trust and support. However, actor Wyatt Russell, who plays John Walker, later clarified in an interview with Entertainment Weekly that this reference was entirely coincidental. He explained, “the reference was not on purpose.” According to Russell, the dialogue was added during post-production to fill a gap in the scene, unaware that it would resonate so strongly with fans.
“That was a line I didn’t want to say,”Russell admits. “Jake felt like we needed something to say in ADR. That was an ADR-ed line. That is not connected at all. It was just something to fill a void.”— (via EW)
Initially, Russell was unaware that he had even uttered a reference to Captain America. The decision was made by director Jake Schreier, who wanted to enhance the scene’s atmosphere, which ultimately led to an unintended nod to a beloved franchise quote. Given Walker’s troubled portrayal, many fans find it surprising that this line was not crafted as an intentional homage.
Should John Walker Have Used ‘On Your Left’?
A Fractured Legacy for Steve Rogers
Even when it initially seemed intentional, hearing Walker say this iconic line feels unsettling. Considering Walker’s controversial actions and role, many argue he should not have the privilege of using such a meaningful phrase. The line signifies the deep bond between Steve and Sam, reflecting mutual support and understanding—values that Walker, with his tarnished image, clearly undermines.
The fact that this quote was an unintentional coincidence adds to the dissonance. “On your left” is a phrase that resonates with fans; if it were meant as a deliberate callback, it would disconcertingly illustrate the disconnect that perhaps exists within the creative process at Marvel. The underlying issue shows a lack of attentiveness to the narrative flow and the weight of the words spoken in Thunderbolts*.