It was revealed last November that Narcos: Mexico star Tenoch Huerta was being cast in an undisclosed villainous role for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. Speculation from fans went wild with two possibilities being Doctor Doom or Namor — two bitter enemies of Wakanda in the comics, both of whom had invaded the formerly-secret nation.
Some months after this report, POC Culture learned that production for the Black Panther sequel was looking to cast two indigenous characters named "Zyanya" and "Cadmael." The first was described as a fierce warrior woman, but both roles required the actors to have fighting experience.
Now, a new rumor reveals that Wakanda will indeed have to contend with another nation, but one ruled by one of the oldest superheroes in comics.
THE MCU'S SUBMARINER HAS ARRIVED
The Illuminerdi has learned from their sources that Tenoch Huerta will indeed be playing Namor the Submariner in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.
Additionally, the outlet has learned that the two “Mayan warriors” who were cast, codenamed "Zyanya" and "Cadmael," are actually integral characters in Namor lore. Zyanya is actually Namora, Namor’s cousin, while Cadmael is a codename for Attuma, an Atlantean warlord.
NAMOR: MCU HERO OR VILLAIN?
One aspect of Namor that often confuses general audiences is whether Namor is a hero or villain. A simpler way of categorizing him is that he's an anti-hero that often fights for the benefit of himself and his kingdom. An even simpler way to categorize Namor is that he's an egotistical jerk.
As for why Namor would be an enemy of Wakanda, well, their hatred for one another is relatively new in the comics. It began in the 12-issue crossover event, "Avengers vs X-Men," when a fraction of the Phoenix Force possessed Namor. As the heroes hid in the African nation of Wakanda to regroup, Namor flooded it, killing untold Wakandans. So, it will be interesting to see what will spark the flames of war between both nations in this upcoming sequel.
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever is currently scheduled to be released in theaters on July 8, 2022.
