Falcon & The Winter Soldier: 9 Fan Theories That Could Come True

Zemo is one of Captain America's greatest ever foes in the source material, and is made instantly recognisable by his trademark purple mask. His first appearance in the MCU made absolutely no mention of such a fashion choice however, with the idea of portraying him as a normal man too important to give up.

He will however wear the famous balaclava in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, though the reason and meaning is certain to be changed for the MCU. In the comics it began as a means to hide his face during World War II, before an accident welded it to his face permanently, but it has already been established that he doesn't particularly care who sees his face in the MCU.

So, what is the reason behind the mask, and why start wearing it now? Some fans have found it impossible to ignore the similarity between the purple mask and Thanos' unforgettable face, leading them to believe Zemo has been inspired by the Mad Titan.

Almost like he is taunting them for their greatest ever loss, the villain will wear the mask as a form of psychological warfare against Bucky and Sam. After all, Thanos defeated the Avengers, so it would be natural for Zemo's character to almost look up to him.