While Marvel Studios works diligently to get their 2021 slate of movies and series out to the public to start Phase 4, this year accounts for not even half of what's coming in the most expansive phase of the Marvel Cinematic Universe to date. Many more projects will begin filming in the near future, and there are more in the early stages of development as well.
One of those is director Ryan Coogler's Black Panther II , which has a tougher production journey than most due to the tragic loss of star Chadwick Boseman . This has led to major rewrites for the sequel's story, which will now focus on expanding the world of Wakanda along with its most prominent leaders.
In light of these adjustments to Black Panther II's plot, casting rumors are pointing to some interesting choices in terms of diversity and more.
BLACK PANTHER II TO FEATURE WARRIORS OF ALL KINDS
According to a new exclusive from POC Culture , Marvel Studios is looking to cast two Mayan, indigenous characters named "Zyanya" and "Cadmael" into a future Marvel Cinematic Universe movie.
The first role is described as female, between 20 and 40 years old, and being a fierce warrior. Extensive physical training is expected for the actress who takes the role.
The second is male, also between 20 and 40 years old, and fight experience is preferred for this one as well. The description is of someone six feet tall or taller, powerful, strong, and loyal.
Both roles are looking for people with North and South American Indigenous backgrounds.
Murphy's Multiverse later indicated that these roles are likely to be some kind of warriors in next year's Black Panther II.
WHAT KIND OF BATTLES LIE AHEAD?
Black Panther II is set to expand on the legacy of Wakanda more so than its protector in the next movie, although there are no specific plot points describing how that will be done yet.
In terms of the actual casting, this will be a fantastic way to get more representation into the MCU, especially after Alaqua Cox is kicking things off for indigenous characters as Echo in Hawkeye . As for what role they will play in the movie, it's difficult to pin down specifics.
Wakanda will likely be involved in some kind of duel with a neighboring country, although it's hard to pick out where that battle will come from. No matter who it turns out to be, it should make for some exciting action in this sequel as the Wakandans tackle their next challenges without their fearless leader.
Black Panther II is set to release in theaters on July 8, 2022.
