Though Crossbones was seemingly killed in Captain America: Civil War, we all know that death is rarely permanent in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. That, coupled with the fact that fans have long voiced their displeasure with how the character was handled, has led many to believe that he might one day make a return.
Unfortunately, actor Frank Grillo put paid to that idea earlier this year, but now, he seems to have backtracked on those previous comments. To recap, here’s what he originally said about reprising the role of Crossbones:
There’s nowhere for it to go, unless you’re Captain America or Iron Man. They were talking about it, but I was like, ‘You know what? I’d just rather not do it.’ I’m so appreciative and grateful to have been a part of something that big. But, it’s time to move on. Don’t stay at the party too long, or you get knocked through the ropes.”
While chatting to Forbes, however, the actor changed his tune, saying:
“I have three boys who are fanatical about Marvel, and I was surprised not too long ago because there is some news that nobody knows yet, to do with my character, that’s going to be really interesting and I’m excited about that.”
Now, Grillo doesn’t explicitly mention that Crossbones is being brought back, but he does strongly hint at it. Though presumed dead in Civil War, we never did see the body, so technically, he could make a return. Plus, like we mentioned above, many feel that the character was wasted and the studio certainly knows that fans want to see more of him.
Ultimately, time will tell. But if you ask us, it sure sounds like we haven’t seen the last of Crossbones in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and we wouldn’t be too surprised to see him re-appear somewhere down the road.