Many fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe can agree that the Black Panther movie was an absolute delight. With capable and varied characters introduced through actors like Chadwick Boseman, Angela Bassett, Letitia Wright, Michael B. Jordan, Danai Gurira, Winston Duke, and many more. The movie was everything fans were hoping for and more.
And Marvel wants to treat its viewers with a sequel to the original movie. Marvel announced that they will be releasing a sequel officially titled “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.” To be released in July of 2022 will be the seventh movie in MCU Phase Four and the thirteenth MCU film.
Rumors have been flying around that Director Ryan Coogler will be directing this new installment of Black Panther for Marvel Studios.
However, with the tragic passing of Black Panther star Chadwick Boseman, fans ask the question: Who will take on the role of Black Panther in the next movie?
Fans expect Marvel Studios to honor Chadwick Boseman’s legacy. Kevin Feige, President of Marvel Studios, says Black Panther 2 will ‘Honor and Respect’ Chadwick Boseman.
But this begs the question- Will Marvel Studio be recasting the character of Chadwick Boseman? Well, there have been rumors that MCU will be recasting for T’Challa. So, will there be a successor of T’Challa like that of Captain America’s Sam Wilson?
Well, there are many fan theories and speculations made on this!
Here are our predictions of who might be the next Black Panther:
Shuri (Letitia Wright)
The majority of people seem to believe that the next Black Panther will be Shuri (T’Challa’s little sister). Shuri is played by Letitia Wright. She was adored by fans for being the strong, intelligent, and goofy sister of T’Challa.
This popularity of Shuri has led fans to believe that she might be the next Black Panther. The comics also support this theory during the Dark Reign run of the Black Panther. Shuri took upon the role after her brother got hurt.
Since we know that Marvel’s Cinematic Universe does not necessarily take the route of the comics, this has made fans hope to see her popular character follow her brother’s footsteps.
Okoye (Danai Gurira)
Another strong contender for the successor is Okoye. Danai Gurira plays Okoye in the movies. She is the General of the Dora Milaje and the head of the Wakandan armed forces. She also garnered praise for her role as the powerful and dutiful General and a loyal friend to T’Challa.
This theory garners support by the fact that Okoye has taken the leadership position required to become the Black Panther. She was in charge of Wakanda when Thanos snapped, and both T’Challa and Shuri were wiped from existence.
Along with that, Black Panther was portrayed as honorable, nobility, and graceful. This narrative fits more for Okoye rather than Shuri.
M’Baku (Winston Duke)
M’Baku is another character who might take the mantle and be the successor of T’Challa. M’Baku was the challenger for the throne against T’Challa, having his opposing views. But later saved his life and supported him against Eric Killmonger.
This theory garners support since Ramonda (T’Challa’s mother), and Shuri went to ask his help with the Heart-Shaped Herb after Eric Killmonger presumably killed T’Challa in the first Black Panther movie.
This foe turned friend of T’Challa was the worthy successor to become the Black Panther. Therefore, writers might seek this route to establish M’Baku as the ruler of Wakanda.
The next Black Panther can be anyone from these three characters.
Despite all the speculations, there is no doubt that Marvel Studios is planning to Chadwick Boseman a solemn farewell.
So the question still stands! Will we have a new Black Panther? I guess we will find out soon!
All we have to say till then with certainty is that we will miss seeing Chadwick Boseman! Wakanda Forever!
Also Read : Marvel Cinematic Universe: Upcoming Movies To Look Forward
