Four years ago, Black Panther was released in theaters, receiving high praise not only as a well-made MCU superhero feature, but also as a movie that embraced diversity and inclusion. Ryan Coogler's third directorial effort featured a talented ensemble cast led by Chadwick Boseman, who portrayed King T'Challa in a memorable performance as a powerful leader determined to protect the people of Wakanda and share their technological advancements with the world to do good.

Boseman sadly passed away in 2020 due to colon cancer, leaving many questions over whether a potential sequel would be possible. Now, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever is the next chapter that intends to honor Boseman's memory (and his role as T'Challa). While several cast members from the first movie will return, there are major questions regarding this second Black Panther film.

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What Is The Sequel's Plot?

Black Panther Wakanda Forever Chadwick Boseman Recast

The first film did a fine job introducing audiences to the world of Wakanda, including its cultural significance, technological resources, rituals, and methods of combat. There was also an intriguing villain in Killmonger (Michael B. Jordan) who was emotionally tormented and betrayed by those who failed to tell him the truth about his identity. The sequel will contain new villains who are relatively unknown at this point, but will seek to threaten Wakanda's existence.

Coogler's film may also seek to unveil what happened in Wakanda during T'Challa's reign, including an explanation of how he died. There is also curiosity about how Wakanda has managed to share its resources with the rest of the world after T'Challa agreed to help other nations in need at the end of the first film. Considering that this feature will be the last one in Phase Four of the MCU, many will wonder how this sequel will correlate with the timeline.

What Happened To W'Kabi?

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Get Out star Daniel Kaluuya had a supporting role as W'Kabi in Black Panther, leaving a lasting impression due to his twisted character transitioning from T'Challa's friend to an enemy devoted to Killmonger's dark vision of tyranny. W'Kabi ultimately lost his battle, forcing himself and his army to surrender during the conclusion of the first movie, leaving many to wonder what will become of the double-crossing character.

Unfortunately, Kaluuya will not reprise his role as W'Kabi in the sequel due to the actor's scheduling conflicts and devotion to Jordan Peele's sci-fi horror thriller Nope. However, W'Kabi could be briefly mentioned since he was a key character married to Okoye (Danai Gurira) and may return if there's a potential third film.

Will M'Baku and Ross Still Be Allies For Wakanda?

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Martin Freeman's CIA Agent Everett Ross became a valuable ally for T'Challa and the warriors of Wakanda in the first film, thanks to his knowledge of villains Killmonger and Ulysses Klaue. Ross also learned about some technology in Wakanda, such as their unique railroad system, their healing methods (which were useful for Ross' gunshot wound), and the use of a remote jet to prevent weapons from crossing over to other parts of the world. After T'Challa's death, Ross's involvement with Wakanda is in question, but he will surely provide any assistance they need due to his expertise.

Another ally many might be wondering about is M'Baku, who was once an enemy of T'Challa's, but became an effective comrade who saved the King's life. He will be hit hard by the King's death after their newfound friendship and camaraderie. However, M'Baku is a fierce warrior who'll continue to support his fellow people of Wakanda, especially during war.

How Will Nakia and Okoye's Storylines Continue?

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Nakia (Lupita Nyong'o) and Okoye are two of the most powerful female characters in Black Panther. Both women are strong fighters, well-trained combatants, and are part of Wakanda's elite special forces unit called the Dora Milaje. Nakia split with the organization in order to help others in undercover missions around the globe, while Okoye is a stoic general devoted to leading her group and protecting her people (and is exceptional with a spear).

Since Nakia was in love with T'Challa, and Okoye always stood by the King, both women will greatly miss the Black Panther, and are left with numerous obstacles. If there is a new successor to T'Challa, will Okoye have to adjust to any new leadership on the throne. As for Nakia, she may continue to go on secret missions, while also determined to help Wakanda when necessary. Either way, these warriors will undoubtedly make their people proud in the sequel.

Who Will Be The Next Black Panther?

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Of course, the biggest question surrounding the Black Panther sequel is who will take T'Challa's place as the Black Panther, as well as become the next King or Queen of Wakanda. Many spectators believe that Shuri (T'Challa's sister, played by Letitia Wright) will become the next primary ruler to put on the suit. Shuri is the best choice because she always loved her brother and supported him throughout his career. Their relationship was also humorous due to the way they made fun of each other.

While she is not the toughest fighter, Shuri is still the ideal choice since she is resourceful and knowledgeable. She is also responsible for creating most of the technology in Wakanda, including the Black Panther suits, special gadgets, healing devices, the advanced railroad, and anything with vibranium. Shuri has the power to help outsiders after T'Challa left her in charge of the outreach center in California. With her intelligence and technological skill, Shuri is more than capable of leading Wakanda and becoming the next Black Panther to honor her brother's legacy.

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