Chadwick Boseman tragically passed away earlier this year after a lengthy, secret battle with cancer. Black Panther writer and director Ryan Coogler would later mention that he had penned a screenplay revolving around T'Challa as he was unaware of Boseman's condition, and we now have no idea what the plan is for the Marvel Studios sequel (which still has a 2022 release date).
There are a few options open to Marvel; they can recast the King of Wakanda, have the character die off-screen, or just put the franchise on hold for the foreseeable future.
It's not an easy thing to think about, and that was emphasised by Shuri actress Letitia Wright in a recent interview with Porter. Like most of us, she can't really devote much time to wondering what the future holds in store for the franchise now, as Boseman's passing is still too raw at this stage.
"We’re just still mourning Chad, so it’s not something I even want to think about," Wright admitted. "The thought of doing it without him is kinda strange. We’re just grieving at the moment, so it’s trying to find the light in the midst of it."
It is hard to imagine the character living on without Boseman, but when T'Challa means so much to so many, Marvel Studios likely has something planned.
We'll keep you updated.