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Black Panther 2: Reflecting on Chadwick Boseman’s long-lasting influence

August 28th, 2020. On this day, the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the film industry, and social justice advocates across the globe lost a member of their community. Chadwick Boseman, known for his roles as Black Panther, Jackie Robinson, and Thurgood Marshall, passed away at the age of 43. As the MCU plans to release Black Panther 2: Wakanda Forever, we reflect on Chadwick’s impact and Marvel’s plans to carry the franchise forward.

 

When it was revealed that Chadwick battled colon cancer for four years, fans were shocked at the rate he appeared in films. Notable films include Black Panther, Avengers Infinity War, Avengers Endgame, 21 Bridges, and Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom. Despite his demanding schedule, Boseman kept his diagnosis largely private, focusing on work and shining a light on others. He visited young cancer patients in the hospital and continued to advocate for social justice movements. During the Black Lives Matter movement, Boseman was a spokesman with many other celebrities. He signed a letter along with over 300 other Hollywood artists, which demanded that Hollywood companies should recruit and support Black professionals at studios, agencies, and more. 

 

The time between Chadwick’s death and the formal movie announcement led to fan speculation. One fan theorized that the movie would open with the death of T’Challa, in order to properly say goodbye to Chadwick Boseman. Another indicated that Shuri, the sister of T’Challa, would take on the role of Black Panther, as she has already played a large role in the original film. Finally, one theory believes that Kilmonger, played by actor Michael B. Jordan, is alive and will take on the mantle of Black Panther. This comes directly from the end of Black Panther when T’Challa speaks about mercy after defeating Kilmonger. It is here where the fans are left to argue on whether Kilmonger lived or died. However, the idea of mercy aligned with Boseman as an individual, which is why his role as Black Panther is a perfect fit.

 

In the Marvel phase 4 teaser video, it was announced that the title of the sequel would be Black Panther 2: Wakanda Forever. It has been confirmed that the sequel will honour the legacy of Chadwick Boseman and won’t recast the role of T’Challa. Furthermore, there are no plans to use a ‘digital double’ in the sequel. This removes a myriad of theories regarding how the movie will play out, yet still leaves room for discussion. Kevin Feige explained: “So much of the comics and that first movie is the world of Wakanda. Wakanda is a place to further explore with characters and different subcultures. This was always and initially the primary focus of the next story. We’re not going to have a CG Chadwick and we’re not recasting T’Challa.” Actors Letitia Wright, Lupita Nyong’o, Winston Duke, and Angela Bassett are all expected to reprise their roles in the sequel as Shuri, Nakia, M’Baku, and Ramonda. As theorized, Wright is expected to take on a larger role in the sequel, potentially taking the throne in Wakanda. As for a villain, Tenoch Huerta, the star of Narcos has been cast. He will be playing the aquatic villain Namor, a character who has fought with Black Panther numerous times in the comics.

 

 A well-known role in Boseman’s career was Jackie Robinson in the biopic 42. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Jackie Robinson day was pushed to August 28th, 2020, the same day Boseman passed away. A pioneer for African-Americans in film, Boseman used his work to push the narrative of black excellence. “Black Panther” director Ryan Coogler penned a beautiful tribute to his star and said even he was unaware that Boseman was ill. “Because he was a caretaker, a leader, and a man of faith, dignity, and pride, he shielded his collaborators from his suffering,” Coogler wrote. “He lived a beautiful life. And he made great art.” When Black Panther 2 hits theaters in 2022, Chadwick Boseman’s legacy will be celebrated once again.