Warning: BIG SPOILERS for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever I’m ahead!
Ever since Marvel Studios decided not to re-release T’Challa after Chadwick Boseman’s death, we knew someone else was going to become Black Panther in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. This person, as many assumed, ended up being Letitia Wright’s Shuri, T’Challa’s sister, who embraced the heroic mantle to protect her people of Namor from Tenoch Huerta and her national forces. However, after the end of the battle of Black Panther: Wakanda ForeverIt seemed like Winston Duke’s M’Baku, not Shuri, would be leading Wakanda in the future, and now Duke has made clear this pivotal moment for his Marvel character.
For those who need a refresher, in the MCU just because you’re Black Panther doesn’t automatically grant them the throne of Wakanda. During the coronation ceremony, the future ruler must defeat any rival in ritual combat, and in 2018’s Black Panther we saw T’Challa emerge victorious over M’Baku. cut to the end Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Shuri did not attend her coronation ceremony and M’Baku appeared in front of the crowd. During a lengthy interview with Thread, Winston Duke confirmed that in Shuri’s absence, he will indeed serve as King of Wakanda. As the actor explains:
M’Baku does not apologize. Very proud. A little conservative. This is a shocking moment and, for me, a very exciting one. Now I wonder what kind of king he will be.
While Winston Duke didn’t specify whether M’Baku simply rules Wakanda until Shuri returns or is officially King of Wakanda, there’s no going back. Either way, it’s a big moment for the character, as we’ve seen how effectively he leads the Jabari and how much he cares about him in general. Sure, the reins of leadership have passed to him in unconventional ways, but he is now able to lead the people of Wakanda towards a better future.
So will we actually see M’Baku performing his royal duties? Officially speaking, it’s unclear at this time, with Winston Duke noting he hasn’t been told the future of his character. That said, given how well received Wakanda Forever has been and its impressive box office debut, it is likely that one day we will get black panther 3. Add that Danai Gurira’s Okoye to direct a Wakanda series for Disney+ and the possibility of M’Baku appearing Avengers: Kang Dynasty I Avengers: Secret Wars (just like you did infinite war Yes Game over), and I’d say there’s a good chance we’ll get at least a taste of M’Baku sitting on the throne of Wakanda in the next few years.
Until then, be sure to read our thoughts on Black Panther: Wakanda ForeverThe end credits scene, and check out our other sequel coverage. If you’re looking to relive M’Baku’s past MCU exploits or just rewatch the Marvel movies in order, discontinue your Disney+ membership.
Source: Cinemablend
