The Marvel Cinematic Universe continues to progress into uncharted territory with the new Black Panther sequel, Wakanda Forever. With the loss of talented actor and Black Panther star, Chadwick Boseman to colon cancer in 2020, many fans wondered how this would impact the making of the sequel. 

Chadwick played T’Challa, the king of the nation, Wakanda. With the throne came the title of Black Panther, a warrior garbed in a black, vibranium (a lucrative, powerful material exclusive to Wakanda) suit. As the Black Panther, T’Challa fought in many treacherous battles, several alongside The Avengers. 

Wakanda Forever begins with the loss of King T’Challa, briefly explaining that he succumbed to a fatal illness. The story progresses with T’Challa’s younger sister, Shuri coping with his death and learning to navigate a life without the companionship of her brother. She makes several attempts at communicating with T’Challa through methods of Wakandan ancestral rituals. 

This story is filled with heartfelt moments of experiencing loss, endurance, and staying true to oneself. Director Ryan Coogler included a Marvel intro tribute and a dedication screen at the end reading, “dedicated to our friend, our inspiration, and our hero Chadwick Boseman.”