A recent update from two multiple Wakandans will take up the Black Panther mantle. T'Challa's absence in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever has led fans to speculate about the future of the Black Panther. Naturally, theories about who will don the suit and mask abound, with Shuri, Nakia, and M'Baku as some of the most common candidates. None of these theories may be fully accurate, but they may not be fully inaccurate, either.
In an interview with Shuri is a Black Panther, just not the only one.
Why Multiple New Black Panthers Could Be Good For Wakanda Forever
If Shuri is only one of many Black Panthers, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever could fulfill many fan theories simultaneously. Those who expect Shuri, Nakia, or Okoye to take up the royal mantle may be satisfied to see their expected hero wearing the suit without overshadowing the rest, and none of the characters would be more deserving of the role than the other. Having multiple Black Panthers would also fit Black Panther: Wakanda Forever thematically: After T'Challa's death, no one would try to imitate him. Instead, Wakanda would unite to continue his legacy and respect his memory, concluding that anyone can be Black Panther now. Besides, the late Chadwick Boseman is simply an impossible act to follow, and no single actor would have to be compared to Boseman, if this is truly the case.
What Would All The Black Panthers Do After Wakanda Forever
The presence of multiple Black Panthers in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever would manifest Wakanda's unity after the death of their king. But the next question the MCU would have to answer is what would all the new Black Panthers do after defeating Namor and his people or after making peace with them. Since T'Challa's role in the fights against Zemo and Thanos made him an Avenger, the new Black Panthers will have to decide whether they will continue to fight as superheroes or hang up the claws after a one-time stint.
After all, they may become Black Panthers to honor T'Challa and defend their kingdom from Namor and the Atlantis-like Talocan, but they're not under any responsibility to protect the world. After the events of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, the "Black Panther" title could become more common, like sorcerers or Black Widows. Otherwise, a single hero may eventually step up when the Avengers assemble again.
