Chadwick Boseman made his debut as Marvel Cinematic Universe’s T’Challa in 2016’s Captain America: Civil War and subsequently portrayed the vibranium-imbued superhero in Black Panther, Avengers: Infinity War, and Avengers: Endgame. However, following his tragic passing in 2020, the throne of The Hidden Kingdom has remained without a Black Panther. Despite the MCU's decision not to recast T’Challa in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, recent rumors suggest that a recasting might be considered in the future.

While it is challenging to imagine anyone else leading the army of the Wakandan nation besides Boseman, reality often necessitates difficult acceptance. Hence, here are five actors who could honor Boseman’s legacy if they were to assume the role of the Wakandan Chief in the future.

As per MCU Scooper’s insider talks on X via Rejected Scooper, yet another insider, the MCU will recast T’Challa after Avengers: Secret Wars. Although Marvel Studios’ Vice President Nate Moore did say to Ringer-Verse in 2021 that T’Challa would not appear in the MCU 616 Universe, a variant for the superhero is not off the books. Consequently, beyond showcasing superhuman strength and agility, the portrayal of T’Challa or his variant necessitates a consistent display of intelligence and leadership capabilities as a king and a diplomat.

Chadwick Boseman adeptly maintained this delicate balance of power and psychology in overseeing Wakanda's affairs. However, in Boseman's absence, one of the most promising candidates for the role of Black Panther in the Marvel Cinematic Universe is Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje. Recognized for his performances as Mr. Eko in Lost, Kurse in Thor: The Dark World, and Killer Croc in the DC Universe's Suicide Squad, Akinnuoye-Agbaje possesses the requisite qualities expected of T’Challa.

Given T’Challa's nuanced character, which encompasses both a gentle demeanor and formidable strength, the actor embodying him must effectively cover all facets of the role, and this one certainly does.

In spite of John Boyega's previous declarations expressing his lack of interest in joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe for a role, there remains a glimmer of hope that he may reconsider. Boyega, the British actor who gained prominence for his portrayal of Moses in 2011’s Attack the Block and later achieved widespread recognition as Finn in the Star Wars franchise, cited his reluctance to collaborate with the MCU in the aftermath of publicly criticizing Disney for their handling of his character in the Star Wars sequel trilogy.

In a 2020 interview with GQ, Boyega openly criticized Disney for its inadequate treatment of people of color, including himself, Kelly Marie Tran, Oscar Isaac, and Naomi Ackie. "What I would say to Disney is do not bring out a black character, market them to be much more important in the franchise than they are, and then have them pushed to the side," remarked Boyega.

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Considering these circumstances, it seems improbable that Boyega would consider assuming a role in the Disney-operated MCU. However, if he were to accept such a role, it could serve as a significant opportunity for him to celebrate his Black heritage and reclaim his identity. Not to forget, he also emerged as a potential choice for Kang’s role after the recent worldwide hunt for the supervillain. 

T’Challa’s resilience is a standout trait that distinguishes the superhero from other vigilantes across the multiverse. Therefore, it is essential that any candidate vying for the role of the Black Panther also stand out from the rest. Michael Jai White has achieved this distinction for several compelling reasons. Well-known for his roles in Never Back Down: No Surrender, Mortal Kombat: Legacy, and Tyson, what positions him as a potential favorite for T’Challa’s recasting in the MCU is his mastery of martial arts. White is trained in nine different martial arts disciplines, which would seamlessly bring the action-heavy character to life.

Another factor that places him above other candidates is his prior experience in superhero franchises, including Spawn, The Dark Knight, and Arrow. This background is likely to capture the attention of the MCU.

Derek Luke epitomizes the term jack of all trades. He gained recognition with his titular role in 2002’s Antwone Fisher but achieved even greater prominence for his performances in Friday Night Lights, Glory Road, and 13 Reasons Why. With a physique ideally suited for the portrayal of Black Panther, Luke's prior involvement with the MCU as Gabe Jones in Captain America: The First Avenger ensures he is already familiar with the universe and the dynamics of superhero narratives.

Additionally, his diverse range of projects across various genres underscores that he has more than one feather to his hat, providing a solid foundation for tackling the emotionally demanding aspects of the Black Panther in the MCU's future.

Out of the 5 artists mentioned thus far, Y’lan Noel may be the most underrated, yet he stands as a fitting choice to portray the Black Panther with seamless suitability. Despite his relatively lower profile, Noel has demonstrated his talent through roles in the acclaimed HBO series Insecure and showcased his action prowess in The First Purge. What distinguishes him as the MCU’s prime contender at present is his genuine inclination towards embodying the Black Panther.

In an interview with The Movie Blog in 2022, Noel expressed his readiness to assume the role of T’Challa at a moment's notice, stating, “in a blink of an eye. But it’s up to the gods.” While his skills and enthusiasm make him a compelling candidate, Noel's Black heritage further makes him the perfect fit to authentically portray Black Panther. Yet, as Noel alluded, in the realm of superheroes, the gods are Marvel Studios, so he might as well hope that the studio hears his prayers loud and clear.

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Who do you think could be the MCU's next best bet for T'Challa after Chadwick Boseman's unfortunate demise? Let us know in the comments below!