The truth isn’t always the easiest option. And, this week on The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, the characters must come to terms with some pretty harsh truths (a reckoning day has arrived).

And, one of the biggest issues is surrounding the actions that John Walker took during the end of episode 4. There’s no turning back now that he has made multiple choices that not only affect himself, but everyone else around him. But, the scene at the end credits of episode 5 has set up the official induction of a darker Marvel character.

Of course, there will be spoilers if you read ahead! So, pause for a second, watch episode 5 of The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, and then head back here for that BIG reveal.

SPOILERS AHEAD! YOU’VE BEEN WARNED!

That was a serious episode as we watch Sam take up the Captain America shield and John spiral deeper into a pit of villainy. Again and again, John tries to convince himself that he’s Captain America during the opening sequence fight with Sam and Bucky. But, it’s clear his moral compass doesn’t even come close to Steve Rogers, forcing him to give up the identity he had been clinging to.

That’s why it’s the final nail in the coffin, so to speak, when John decides to build his own Captain America shield in the post-credits scene. We’ve been theorizing that he would take up the U.S. Agent identity. And, it’s pretty obvious now that John will be leaning into this role as a darker, grittier “Captain America,” who listens to his own personal wants and needs.

The shield may cease to be a symbol of hope, turning into a motif of rebellion and disunity. We’re definitely in a new era of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and it’s going to change these heroes forever.

We can’t wait to see what will happen in the grand finale of The Falcon and the Winter Soldier next week! Stay tuned with All Ears for more Marvel entertainment and news!

The ugly truths of Walt Disney World

What did you think about the latest The Falcon and the Winter Soldier episode? Let us know in the comments below!