The Marvel Cinematic Universe is known for its iconic characters, but its christened antagonist consistently dominate the brunt of the conversation. Thanos, the main hindrance to the Avengers, became a focal piece within the later stages of Phase Three, but Killmonger sparked deeper discussions around the definition of the antihero. Micheal B. Jordan discloses his honest belief that his portrayal of Killmonger in Black Panther is not representative of what some would consider a villain.

Erik Killmonger made his appearance in 2018 as a presumed antagonist to T'Challa, played by the late Chadwick Boseman, in Black Panther. Killmonger was the son of a banished Wakandan prince, triggered by loss to seek vengeance against a foreign home. Beneath the camouflage of animosity rested the true intentions of his motivation, which was to uplift the Black community through strategic domination. The struggles faced throughout the world differed significantly from those calling Wakanda home. Killmonger sought to even the playing field, providing communities a resource to rise from the pit of poverty and social injustice.

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During an interview with Bleacher Report, Jordan stated the following, "I think he was a necessary part of the conversation. He cared about his people just as much as T'Challa. He just had a different way going about getting it done." The interviewer, Taylor Rooks, agreed with his sentiments, expressing her belief that the iconic character was a protagonist whose actions, driven by love and a desire, hoped for the betterment of his people to come to fruition. "He saw there was really only one way to change things, so he went about that," continued Jordan, who earlier made a note of the intelligence and historical knowledge rooted within this character. Listen to his complete response below:

The intentions ingrained within Killmonger's actions made him emblematic because power for himself was not the desire kindling within his heart. Compassion is felt by most that can connect with his plight, and thus his view is not one believed to be villainous. As Jordan stated, T'Challa and Killmonger instilled the desire to liberate equally in their hearts, but their means of accomplishing their objectives were fundamentally different. This difference is symbolic of moments within history when dual beliefs sought to achieve the same goal. The arguments from both sides have standing, but privilege and opportunity can dictate the path taken. T'Challa was fortunate to live within a society of advancement, while Killmonger saw the struggles of his people fall prey to slow-moving hands of change. To label Killmonger a villain because of the scars, oppression, and maltreatment inflicted upon him may be misguided, but the decisions made to heal are certainly up for questioning.

Jordan voiced that his character could have taken a more passive approach, but his aggressive push for change attracted many to his corner. A protagonist is defined as a champion for a cause, making the distinctions between T'Challa and Killmonger challenging to categorize. One could argue they champion a similar cause while noting the bridge of separation between them. Despite their differences, however, T'Challa empathized with his rival, understanding the true nature of his passion. The relatable nature of Killmonger is infectious and relevant within a world where insensitivity for the Black community is pertinent. Many can commiserate and understand the impact a challenging life had on Killmongers actions. Monsters are not born but created, and whether one believes Killmonger to be a hero or not, the world helped develop what he eventually became.

Many hope to see the beloved character return for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, but it is unclear what the future holds for the strong-willed activist. The sequel, however, to Black Panther is currently on hiatus from filming while actress, Letitia Wright, recovers from injuries sustained while on-set.

MORE: Some Of The Best MCU Villains Should Make A ReturnSource: Bleacher Report