Following the death of Chadwick Boseman, there has not been a lot of information about the upcomingBlack Panthersequel. Much of what is known to fans remains hints or rumors and the newest rumor aboutBlack Panther 2suggests that Marvel Studios is casting two Mayan characters for the film.
Casting rumors state that Marvel is looking to cast one female Mayan character and one male Mayan character for an upcoming feature film. The female role is listed under the name “Zyanya,” a fierce and cunning warrior between 20-40 years old. The male character is listed under the name “Cadmael,” six feet tall or taller, 20-40 years old, and described as powerful, strong, and loyal. Both listings state that extensive physical training is expected and fight or stunt experience is preferred. The casting call is seeking actors of all North and South American indigenous backgrounds.
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While the feature film these castings are for is not named, it has been hypothesized to beBlack Panther 2. The timing of the casting lines upwith the projected start datefor the filming of the sequel. It is specifically a casting call for a film, andnot for any of the Marvel TV series. This would also line up with previous rumors of the inclusion of the city of Atlantis in the film. It’s possible thatBlack Panther 2could be exploring different hidden civilizations or cultures.
Zyanya and Cadmael are not names of existing characters in the Marvel comic universe, so who these characters are exactly is a mystery. These could be codenames for the purpose of the casting calls, but the character descriptions do not fit any existing Mayan characters in the Marvel comics. It is also possible that these are original characters created for this Marvel project specifically. With little information as tothe plot ofBlack Panther 2, it’s difficult to theorize at this time.
Despite the loss of its lead actor,Black Panther 2will not be recasting T’Challa. President of Marvel Studios Kevin Feige confirmed this at the 2020 Disney Investor’s Day, saying of the late Chadwick Boseman, “his portrayal of T’Challa the Black Panther is iconic and transcends any iteration of the character in any other medium from Marvel’s past. It’s for that reason we will not recast the character.” Along with the upcoming film, it has been confirmed thatBlack Pantherdirector and co-writer Ryan Cooglerwill be developing a Disney Plus seriesbased in the fictional city of Wakanda.
Black Panther 2is scheduled to be released in theatres on July 13, 2025.
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