Marvel Star Sebastian Stan Says He Was 'Saved' by $65,000 Residuals From Hot Tub Time Machine Before Playing Winter Solder

Sebastian Stan has opened up about the career challenges he faced before securing his pivotal role as the Winter Soldier in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. In an interview with Vanity Fair, Stan revealed that a $65,000 residuals payment from his role as Blaine in the 2010 film Hot Tub Time Machine was crucial during a time when he was struggling to find work. This financial lifeline came just before he was cast as James "Bucky" Barnes in 2011's Captain America: The First Avenger, where he starred alongside Chris Evans.

"I was actually struggling with work," Stan shared. "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."

Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige praised Stan's casting, noting that despite being relatively unknown at the time, Stan's potential was clear. "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 been a significant part of the MCU, reprising his role in multiple films including Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014), Captain America: Civil War (2016), various Avengers movies, and this year's Captain America: Brave New World. He is also set to return as the character in the upcoming film Thunderbolts. Additionally, Stan's name was included in the cast reveal for Avengers: Doomsday, indicating that Bucky Barnes will continue to be a part of the MCU for the foreseeable future.

Which Marvel hero are you most surprised isn't appearing in Avengers: Doomsday? -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

WolverineSpider-ManHulkShe-HulkStormJean GreyStar-LordCaptain MarvelMonica RambeauMs. MarvelThe HawkeyesWongDoctor StrangeOther (let us know in the comments)

AnswerSee Results