Anthony Mackie divides fans as he claims we’re ‘living through the death of the American male’

Anthony Mackie is known for playing superheroes on screen, but off-screen, and it looks like takes just as much pride in his most important role — fatherhood.

The 46-year-old Captain America: Brave New World star recently appeared on The Pivot podcast, where he discussed his approach to raising his four sons, his views on masculinity, and the realities of success in today’s world.

Anthony Mackie has spoken out about his parenting style. Credit: Corey Nickols/Getty Images for IMDb

However, some of the MCU star’s comments have divided fans…

Raising His Sons with Traditional Values

Mackie – who shares his children with ex-wife Sheletta Chapital – spoke about his commitment to instilling respect and responsibility in his boys, who range in age from eight to 15.

He emphasized that he is raising them to be “young men” in a time when he believes masculinity is under attack.

Anthony Mackie also shared his thoughts on masculinity in the US. Credit: Jason Kempin/Getty Images for CMT

“In the past 20 years, we’ve been living through the death of the American male,” Mackie stated. “They have literally killed masculinity in our homes, in our communities, for one reason or another. But I raise my boys to be young men.

“And however you feel about that, you feel about that.”

For Mackie, that means teaching his sons to be humble, respectful, and accountable. He expects them to say “yes, sir” and “yes, ma’am,” open doors for women, and be prepared to take on leadership roles within the household.