While many know John Krasinski from his work on The Office, they might be surprised to learn the actor almost starred as one of Marvel’s biggest heroes. It wasn’t long ago that Krasinski stood as a finalist for the role of Captain America. However, the part ultimately went to Chris Evans who’s handled the hero’s shield with infinite grace. Krasinski has since admitted he’s happy to have lost the role, but the actor’s inner fanboy is still alive and well. After all, Krasinski has said he’d love to do a Marvel flick if the chance arose.

Speaking with Collider, the actor discussed his work as a director and also reflected on his past work. So, of course, it didn’t take long for the topic of superheroes to reveal itself. When asked whether he’d be interested in suiting up for one of Marvel’s blockbusters, Krasinski said he’d be all for it.

“Absolutely,” he said. “My whole thing is I’m such a huge fan of the Marvel movies, so if there are any characters left for sure, bang the drum. Just to be in that world, they’re really well-made and they seem like they’re having a lot of fun and I happen to be friends with a whole bunch of those guys and girls, so to me it would be a great time, I’d love it.”

But, when Krasinski was asked if he’d be interested in directing a Marvel movie, the actor’s enthusiasm backpedaled. “I don’t know if I wanna direct one of the biggest movies ever made,” he laughed. “There’s so much pressure on that. But I’d definitely direct a studio film next.”

In fact, when asked describe his directing interests, Krasinski said he was all about a movie’s story. “I care about how well-written and well thought out the characters are and the story,” he said. It’s this focus that’s drawn Krasinski to Marvel’s cinematic universe in the first place. The actor said he thinks film's honor good stories in a way that compliments block-busting action.

“They seem to have figured it out that your audience is only gonna keep coming back if you deliver them quality,” he said, talking about Marvel Studios. “They’re doing very, very well. I think that’s the reason why I love the Marvel movies, is they’re great movies.” The actor even spoke about his recent viewing of Captain America: Civil War, saying he was impressed with the film and simultaneously grateful Chris Evans was cast as the hero rather than himself.

Should Krasinski want to be cast as one of Marvel’s starring heroes, the part might be a bit easier for the actor to get these days. After all, he stunned fans with his buff, action-packed portrayal of a former US Navy SEAL in Michael Bay’s 13 Hours. During a recent interview with Conan, Krasinski said his previously lean physique made him feel like a bad fit for Captain America. He talked about trying out the hero’s patriotic costume to only feel all kinds of embarrassed when Chis Hemsworth (Thor) walked past him.

“I was putting on the suit just watching it and like this is so amazing and I got about right to my waist, I was still shirtless and feeling pretty good about myself, wasn't Thirteen Hours yet but felt pretty good, and all of a sudden Chris Hemsworth walked by as Thor and went "hey mate", and I went "I'm good, this is stupid, I shouldn't, It's okay, I'm not going to be Captain America, it's fine.””