The Winter Soldier has become one of the most popular MCU heroes. First introduced as Captain America’s best friend and sidekick in Captain America: The First Avenger, Bucky has now made a name for himself and become a fan favorite. Captain America: The Winter Soldier introduces the audience to Bucky as a deadly assassin known as the Winter Soldier, who was brainwashed by the corrupt organization HYDRA.
After he regains his memories, Bucky has to work on navigating his life in a new time period while healing from his trauma. With his journey, Bucky proves that his super-soldier strength and speed aren't what makes him a great hero. His ability to protect others, his sense of duty, and his path toward healing makes him an inspiration.
10 Protecting The Little Guy
It's no secret that Bucky's best friend, Steve Rogers, didn't always have the super-soldier strength and physique he had during his time as Captain America. He also didn't have his shield made of the most powerful metal in the Marvel universe, Vibranium.
Before this, Steve was the average underdog, smaller than everyone else and getting bullied because of it. While he didn't have his super-soldier strength to protect him at the time, Steve always had Bucky. His friend always protected him and never judged him. Bucky was a steadfast friend to Steve and always tried to boost his confidence.
9 Supporting Sam Wilson As Captain America
Bucky and Sam Wilson may have had their fair share of conflicts during the beginning of The Falcon And The Winter Soldier, but Bucky's support of Sam becoming the new Captain America never wavered. Bucky continuously believed that Steve made the right choice by passing on the Captain America mantle and shield to Sam.
Bucky trusted Sam's capability of being a worthy leader and even fought alongside him during the fight against the Flag Smashers. Eventually, Sam and Bucky became great friends and Bucky continues to show how proud he is of Sam.
8 Showing His Vulnerability
Superheroes are known for representing strength and power. Although it's exciting to see a superhero lift a car or blast a lightning bolt, it's just as endearing to see them show vulnerability that the audience can relate to. Although the Captain America trilogy featured Bucky's impressive action scenes, The Falcon And The Winter Soldier portrayed Bucky in a different light.
It's clear that Bucky has had a tragic past and his emotional trauma was documented throughout the series, displaying his nightmares and feelings of guilt. Bucky is even seen attending therapy sessions and talking candidly about his feelings with Sam. Bucky's journey shows that even those with superhuman strength can feel vulnerable and need support, just like any other non-superhuman.
7 Pulling Steve From The River
After being brainwashed, Bucky's deep care for Steve never stopped. Even in The Winter Soldier when Bucky was believed to have lost his memory, there was still a part of him that connected to Steve. During Bucky and Steve's fight at the end of The Winter Soldier, an injured Steve falls into the river. Bucky, having felt a faint connection to his childhood friend, pulls his body to the safety of the shore.
This scene itself was a milestone in their relationship and one of the best moments between Bucky and Steve. Until this day, the relationship between Steve and Bucky contributed to making Captain America: The Winter Soldier one of the best Marvel films.
6 Always Joining The Fight
It's no secret that the Winter Soldier fought on the wrong side while he was being brainwashed by HYDRA. However, when Bucky isn't brainwashed, he's always willing to fight for what is right. Whether it's World War II or one of the most powerful Marvel villains (like a Titan with the Infinity Stones), Bucky is ready to join the fight.
Bucky is seen fighting against an army of aliens sent by Thanos in Avengers: Infinity War, fighting Thanos in the Avengers: Endgame battle, and fighting the Flag Smashers in The Falcon And The Winter Soldier. If there is a chance for Bucky to protect others, he's going to put his life on the line every time.
5 Having The Best Fighting Skills
Although Bucky's main heroic traits are his bravery and heart, his fighting skills also need to be recognized. Bucky's advanced skills in combat and weapons have contributed to some of the most thrilling action scenes in Marvel movies. His skills also make him a worthy opponent to Steve Rogers.
One of his most notable action scenes was when he attacked Steve Rogers, Sam Wilson, and Natasha Romanoff in Captain America: The Winter Soldier during the bridge fight. He even went on to fight Steve one-on-one with only a knife. Bucky also shows his skills during Captain America: Civil War when Zemo brainwashed him and caused Bucky to fight a number of heroes including Tony Stark, Steve Rogers, and T'Challa.
4 Being Sweet To Sam's Family
At the end of The Falcon And The Winter Soldier, Bucky is seen spending time with Sam's family and community. This led to one of Sam and Bucky's most heartwarming scenes of them fixing Sam's family boat together.
Bucky was also the best "uncle" to Sam's nephews. He was seen play fighting with them and even letting them hang on his metal arm. Even though Bucky was one of the best soldiers, there is still a side to him that values family and simplicity.
3 Appreciating His Time In Wakanda
Wakanda is easily one of the most impressive and intriguing places in the Marvel universe. Bucky was one of the few characters outside of Wakanda who got to spend a significant time there and learn about the country. The Wakandans even gave him the nickname "White Wolf."
After the events in Captain America: Civil War, Wakandan King T'Challa allowed Bucky to stay in his country while Shuri and Ayo helped remove the programming tht HYDRA put in his mind. In The Falcon And The Winter Soldier, Bucky expresses that he found peace in Wakanda and has a deep respect for the Wakandans, especially Ayo, Shuri, and the Dora Milaje.
2 Showing Compassion Towards Karli Morgenthau
Both Sam and Bucky were hesitant to hurt Flag Smashers leader Karli Morgenthau in The Falcon And The Winter Soldier. Despite her dangerous actions, Sam and Bucky were willing to give her a second chance. Although others were adamant about capturing Karli, Sam and Bucky wanted to give Karli a chance to speak with Sam before they took action.
Bucky even tried to have a heart-to-heart talk with Karli on the phone about thinking twice before she went through with actions she may regret. Even though Karli continuously tried to hurt Bucky, he showed compassion and understanding towards her.
1 Continuing To Persevere And Heal
From the moment Bucky realized he was free from HYDRA's programming in Wakanda, Bucky has shown resilience and bravery in his path to healing. Although Bucky was a victim, he tries to make amends for all the actions HYDRA made him do as the Winter Soldier. Bucky doesn't need to apologize for the abuse and trauma inflicted upon him, yet he still wants to make amends, help people, and fight alongside Sam.
He also continues to persevere emotionally by opening up to those around him. Despite Bucky's difficult past, he continues to find his place in the world and shows that his superhuman strength isn't what defines him as a great hero. It's his willingness to protect others, his ability to be a great friend, and his brave effort in healing from his trauma that solidifies Bucky as the MCU's best hero.