Marvel Studios ended its Hall H presentation at the San Diego Comic-Con this past Saturday with the first trailer for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. It was an emotional, must-see sneak peek that culminated with confirmation that the MCU will soon have a new Black Panther.
When Chadwick Boseman passed away following a lengthy battle with cancer, there was a lot of speculation online about plans for the character. Some argued that he should be recast, while others just wondered how T'Challa's absence would be dealt with. Now, we know that the hero dies before or during the early moments of this sequel, but who takes over as Wakanda's protector?
Asked by MTV News this past weekend whether she's the one unleashing those Vibranium claws, Shuri actor Letitia Wright would only say, "I don't know what you're talking about. But November 11, you get your ticket."
Unfortunately, Nakia actor Lupita Nyong'o was similarly coy, refusing to give anything away. Her character is also a fan-favourite candidate to suit up as the new Black Panther, and she responded to The Hollywood Reporter's question about that shot in the trailer by stating, "Don’t you just love a good secret?"
Nyong'o would later share her excitement for the sequel, describing the experience of honouring the late Chadwick Boseman as "very therapeutic." She'd add, "To make this film against all odds is a powerful statement unto itself, and I am very proud that we did it."
"It restored a sense of hope for me in making it, and I think we’ve expanded the world of Wakanda in ways that will blow people’s minds - not just Wakanda, but the Black Panther world. It’s gonna blow people’s minds, and I just cannot wait until it’s not a secret anymore."
We don't know whether Marvel Studios plans to reveal the new Black Panther prior to this sequel's release or if they'll make fans wait for the movie itself. Either way, it sounds like everyone's priority was making sure Boseman and T'Challa were honoured in a meaningful way.
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever is set to be released in theaters on November 11. later this year.