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Captain America: Brave New World is already mired in controversy ahead of its release. In addition to concerns about alleged poor quality, which led to expensive reshoots, one major character is facing demands for removal.
The controversy centers around Sabra, a Jewish superhero with a Mossad background. Criticism began when her inclusion was first announced, and tensions heightened after news of the reshoots revealed that Sabra remained in the film, despite the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, sparking even more debate.
Sabra’s appearance in the Captain America: Brave New World trailer sparked outrage among fans, with some threatening to boycott the film. Many hoped her origin story would be altered, as her MCU description portrays her as a former Black Widow and confidante to President Thaddeus Ross, with no mention of her Israeli background or Mossad connections. This led to accusations that Marvel was erasing her Israeli origins.
However, days after the trailer’s release, insiders told The Wrap that her origin hadn’t been changed but simply wasn’t highlighted in the trailer.
The ADL then issued a statement:
We’re pleased to learn that Sabra will be retaining her Israeli identity in ‘Captain America, Brave New World,’ and is still being portrayed by the wonderful Israeli actress Shira Haas. Marvel Studios should be commended for not capitulating to the anti-Israel forces who wanted this character’s identity quashed, along with her backstory.
According to recent reports, Marvel Studios appears to have caved to pressure from anti-Israel groups, as Sabra’s Israeli heritage will no longer be referenced in Captain America: Brave New World. Industry insider Daniel Richtman revealed that Sabra’s origin is no longer Jewish, and she is now portrayed simply as a former Black Widow.
Marvel Studios has reportedly removed all connections to Sabra’s Israeli background in response to the backlash. Originally, Sabra was set to reveal herself as a Mutant, but her character has since been reworked into a powerless ex-Black Widow.
Examining the reactions to this (unconfirmed) news reveals a largely negative sentiment, with many fans calling for the complete removal of the character.
Given the volatile political climate, it’s challenging to balance the demands and expectations of fans. Regardless of whether Sabra’s origin is retained or altered, Marvel Studios is likely to face backlash on social media, with accusations of either supporting genocide or being antisemitic.
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