Anthony Mackie Keeps the MCU “Beef” with Tom Holland Alive: “They Gonna Do It Until They’re 90!”

Tom Holland’s Spider-Man and Anthony Mackie’s Falcon first met in Captain America: Civil War in 2016. During the film’s press tours, Mackie frequently teased Holland, jokingly calling him a diva and making light of his need for frequent breaks and supervision on set. This playful teasing continued in later interviews. Holland recalls a moment when he used one of Mackie’s catchphrases on set, unintentionally stealing Mackie’s spotlight and possibly kicking off their friendly rivalry.

Their playful banter has persisted over the years. For instance, during a 2018 Comic-Con interview, Mackie joked that he hadn’t seen Holland’s film Spider-Man: Homecoming. Holland cleverly responded by noting that Mackie didn’t have his own solo project at the time. This ongoing rivalry provides the backdrop for our discussion.

It’s clear that Mackie took that comment to heart and frequently brings it up. With his standalone movie set to release in about six months, he’s making sure Holland—and everyone else—knows that Holland will definitely have to watch it.

At this year’s SDCC, Mackie told IGN that he plans to drag Holland to the premiere, even suggesting that Zendaya should find another date for the event. When asked by IGN about what excites him most about the movie, Mackie responded:

“I’m excited for Tom Holland to see the movie. […] He’s my date to the premiere. Zendaya, whatever you need to do, come with your friend or something. But [Tom’s] coming with me.

This isn’t the first time Mackie has “threatened” Holland to ensure he watches the movie. A few months ago, the Captain America: Brave New World star made a similar remark as well.

He did that on a very public stage, so I’m going to hold that till the premiere. I’m going to make sure that Marvel makes him come to the premiere, and then I’m going to sit him next to me, and I’m going to watch him watch the movie.

In a recent interview with DiscussingFilm, Mackie stoked the rivalry once more, telling Holland that he was right—it truly is a different experience when you have your own movie.

I had to take time and let the scope of what happened set in. You were right Tom Holland, it is different when you go with your own movie!

As usual, fans had plenty to say about it:

However, this rivalry shouldn’t be taken too seriously—it’s all in good fun, as the two actors are close friends off-screen. What’s your take? Share your thoughts in the comments below!