My fellow Marvel lovers, 2021 has been kind to us and we’re still being fed! Phase Four for the MCU is full steam ahead, with Marvel continuing to expand with their original series on Disney+. While many fans (myself included) are salivating to see the highly anticipated sequel Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, the franchise is getting its own show on the streaming platform. While we have a million questions about the upcoming series, Marvel is bringing back a familiar face with the iconic Danai Gurira as the Dora Milage leader Okoye. Okoye who stole the show in Black Panther and became a member of the Avengers in Infinity War and Endgame; is a welcomed addition to Black Panther: Kingdom of Wakanda neither should it be a shock to fans. So I guess all that’s left to ask is it okay that I celebrate now?
While Marvel hasn’t confirmed Gurira’s involvement, THR reports that Gurira’s lawyer Jamie Mandelbaum negotiated a deal for her return as Okoye in both Black Panther: Wakanda Forever and the spinoff series Kingdom of Wakanda. Outside of announcing his involvement with the Disney+ show, Black Panther director Ryan Coogler has been very tight-lipped about the new series. Details about the future of the franchise have been kept secret, especially with the sudden death of the impeccable Chadwick Boseman, the franchise’s star. Coogler admits “…This is one of the more profound things that I’ve ever gone through in my life, having to be a part of keeping this project going without this particular person. Who was like the glue that held it together.”
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever is currently slated to premier in theaters on July 8, 2022. Disney+ doesn’t have a premiere date for Kingdom of Wakanda yet. Are you as excited as I am? Will you be tuning in?