Anthony Mackie recalls Ian McKellen's heartwarming reaction to learning he was Captain America

Anthony Mackie shared a wholesome behind-the-scenes story about meeting Ian McKellen

Anthony Mackie is looking back on a memorable encounter with acting legend Ian McKellen, and the exchange couldn't have been more heartwarming.

In a recently resurfaced interview clip, the Captain America: Brave New World star recalled meeting McKellen for the first time while filming. Excited to be working alongside the acclaimed actor, Mackie introduced himself and praised McKellen's work.

"So I go to Ian McKellen, he goes, 'Hello, son,'" Mackie recalled. "I'm like, 'Ian McKellen, sir, you're amazing. It's amazing to work with you.'"

McKellen then asked Mackie what role he was playing in the film.

"He goes, 'So what are you doing in the film?' And I'm like, 'I'm Captain America.'"

According to Mackie, McKellen's response left a lasting impression.

"He goes, 'Wonderful. And you deserve that.'"

Mackie simply replied, "Thank you, Sir Ian. Thank you."

Anthony Mackie on meeting Ian McKellen for the first time while filming ‘Avengers: Doomsday’

“I go to Ian McKellen, he goes, ‘Hello, son.’ I’m like, ‘Ian McKellen, sir. You’re amazing. It’s amazing to work with you’”

“He goes, ‘So what are you doing in the film?’ and I’m… pic.twitter.com/SUtQoXBpDZ

— Culture Crave 🍿 (@CultureCrave) July 29, 2026

The brief but touching exchange has been winning over fans online, with many praising McKellen's kindness and support for Mackie, who officially took up the mantle of Captain America in the Marvel Cinematic Universe after succeeding Chris Evans' Steve Rogers.

The clip has since gone viral on social media, with viewers calling the interaction one of the most wholesome celebrity moments to surface this week.