Sebastian Stan has had a pretty great last few years in his career. He's got a major recurring role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Bucky Barnes-- recently appearing in his fourth movie for Avengers: Infinity War. This past Oscars season was also a good one for Stan, as he had a supporting role in the scrappy biopic I, Tonya. Stan's performance as the infamous Jeff Gillooly was met with critical acclaim, while his co-star Allison Janney won an Oscar, with Margot Robbie also picking up a nomination on the way. But the Captain America actor's career hasn't always been as successful. He recently ran into J.J. Abrams at this year's Oscars, and the director didn't remember Stan actually auditioned for a part in the Star Trek franchise. As Stan tells it,
It's funny, I saw J. J. Abrams at an Oscar party on Sunday night. And he goes, 'Hey, nice to meet you.' I was like: 'Actually, I've met you before. I screen-tested for Star Trek. But that's okay. I wouldn't expect you to remember that.'
Looks like Sebastian Stan was one of the many actors who auditioned for a role in J.J. Abrams' recent reboot of the Star Trek franchise. While not being a member of the USS Enterprise didn't stop Stan's career from reaching blockbuster heights, it was no doubt humbling for him to "meet" Abrams years later. And at the Academy Awards, of all places.
Sebastian Stan's anecdote to GQ was certainly amusing, although it will no doubt cause endless fan theories. Exactly who was the Winter Soldier auditioning for in the Star Trek franchise? Stan has the rugged good looks and action experience that could seemingly lend itself to a variety of characters. One option is that Stan went up against Karl Urban for the role of McCoy, although there is a ten year age difference between the actors. He more likely was going for the leading role of Kirk. But since the franchise landed a more household name like Chris Pine, it make sense that Abrams would pivot to the future Wonder Woman actor.
Ultimately J.J. Abrams passing on Sebastian Stan allowed for him to take on the role of Bucky Barnes in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Stan debuted back in 2011's Captain America: The First Avenger, and has served as both a villain and hero in the shared universe. He most recently popped back up in Avengers: Infinity War, joining forces with The Avengers in Wakanda for the battle against Josh Brolin's villainous Thanos. It's currently unclear how long Stan will remain in the MCU, as many of the actors' contracts are up after Avengers 4.
You can catch Sebastian Stan in Avengers: Infinity war in theaters now. In the meantime, check out our 2018 release list to plan your next trip to the movies.
