Black Panther: Wakanda Forever begins filming – what will the sequel look like without Chadwick Boseman?
Los Angeles, California - Filming has begun on the second installment of the Marvel hit Black Panther, but how will the story go on after the death of lead actor Chadwick Boseman?
The news of the 45-year-old's passing in August 2020 shocked Hollywood and Marvel fans alike. That he was able to come off as so strong during filming while battling end-stage cancer was astounding.
Boseman thrilled millions as King T'Challa, the titular character of Black Panther. With the sequel, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, set for release next summer, fans are wondering how the story can carry on without its hero.
Marvel Studios boss Kevin Feige (48) spoke to Variety as shooting began at the American Pinewood Studios in Atlanta.
According to Feige, most of the original 2018 cast will be back: "It’s clearly very emotional without Chad, but everyone is also very excited to bring the world of Wakanda back to the public and back to the fans."
Feige was optimistic about the sequel, saying, "We’re going to do it in a way that would make Chad proud."
He gave no further details on the background of the story, so we will have to wait and see who will take up the role as the next leader of Wakanda.
An obvious choice would be T'Challa's sister, Shuri, played by Letitia Wright (27).
TV series about the world of Wakanda planned
Black Panther took Hollywood by storm and showed the world how a movie with a predominantly Black cast could set a new standard for the movie industry while also celebrating huge international success.
The film was nominated for seven Oscar nominations, won three, and earned more than $1.34 billion worldwide.
It also received nominations and awards from more than 70 separate film and music rating organizations.
The sequel is scheduled to hit theaters on July 8, 2022. The film will also be launched simultaneously on Disney+.
A TV series set in the world of Wakanda is also planned, but again, no specifics have been released.
Cover photo: Marvel Studios 2018