Following the exciting events at San Diego Comic-Con 2022, fans were thrilled to finally get a glimpse of the first trailer for “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.” After eagerly waiting for details about the film, the trailer provides some insight into the story. However, it leaves one significant question unanswered: Who will take up the mantle of the new Black Panther?
Chadwick Boseman, who portrayed King T’Challa and the Black Panther in the first film, sadly passed away in 2020, leaving a significant void in the franchise. Disney and Marvel Studios have confirmed that they will not recast the role of T’Challa or use digital technology to recreate Boseman’s performance. However, this doesn’t mean that the Black Panther mantle will remain vacant. In the trailer, we catch a quick glimpse of a Black Panther costume, sparking speculation about who will take on the role. While it remains uncertain, the trailer has generated various theories about the new Black Panther’s identity.
Join us as we delve into the question of who will take on the mantle of Black Panther. Alongside this exciting discussion, let’s not forget the other major announcements made by Marvel Studios at Comic-Con. We can look forward to two more Avengers movies, the introduction of Thunderbolts, a new Captain America film, and the highly anticipated Fantastic Four. Additionally, Kevin Feige surprised fans by outlining the plans for Phase 5 and Phase 6 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, offering a glimpse into the future. And let’s not overlook the thrilling news of more Cosmo the Spacedog in Guardians of the Galaxy, Vol. 3, a revelation that surely captured the attention of many attendees.
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever hits theaters on November 11, 2022.
Nakia
Played by: Lupita Nyong’o
Nakia would be a captivating choice to take on the role of Black Panther. Her deep connection with T’Challa and her involvement as one of Wakanda’s War Dogs make her a compelling candidate. As a skilled warrior and adept at undercover work as a spy, she would have no trouble concealing a superhero identity. Her multifaceted character and rich background would bring a unique perspective to the role.
Shuri
Played by: Letitia Wright
After Boseman’s passing, many fans presumed that Shuri would step up and become the new Black Panther, carrying on her family legacy. However, it’s uncertain if that will be the case. Nevertheless, Shuri would undeniably make a capable Black Panther. She is highly skilled, technologically savvy, exceptionally intelligent, and appears eager to embark on such adventures. The comics have also established a precedent for this storyline.
Queen Ramonda
Played by: Angela Bassett
While it may be considered unlikely, there is a possibility of Queen Ramonda taking on the role of Black Panther. Just like King T’Chaka continued to be the Black Panther in his older age, Ramonda could follow a similar path. Additionally, the prospect of seeing Angela Bassett donning the Black Panther suit is undoubtedly exciting for fans.
M’Baku
Played by: Winston Duke
Considering M’Baku’s character development and his eventual alliance with T’Challa, it is conceivable that he could step into the role of the new Black Panther. With Winston Duke reprising his role as M’Baku in Wakanda Forever, his formidable warrior skills make him a strong candidate for the mantle.
Okoye
Played by: Danai Gurira
Okoye, as the leader of the Dora Milaje, possesses exceptional combat skills and intelligence, making her highly qualified for the role of Black Panther. Her extensive training and leadership experience make her a strong contender to take on the mantle.
Kilmonger
Played by: Michael B. Jordan
While it may seem unlikely, considering Kilmonger’s apparent death in the first Black Panther film, the introduction of the Multiverse in the Marvel Cinematic Universe opens up the possibility of alternate versions of characters. In this context, it’s not entirely impossible for another version of Kilmonger to make an appearance or for his character to have somehow survived. Marvel has a history of introducing unexpected twists and bringing characters back in unique ways. The resemblance of the gold suit in the trailer to Kilmonger’s attire adds fuel to the speculation.
