9 Actors Who Could Portray the Next Black Panther in the MCU

Derek Luke: The Experienced Marvel Actor

Derek Luke has a proven track record with Marvel Studios, having portrayed Gabe Jones in Captain America: The First Avenger. His physique and dramatic experience make him a strong contender for the role of T'Challa, bringing both physicality and emotional depth to the character.

Derek Luke as Malcolm DeVeaux in Empire

Luke's roles in films like Antwone Fisher and Miracle at St. Anna have showcased his ability to handle emotionally-demanding aspects, making him a compelling choice for the next Black Panther.

Derek Luke as Gabe Jones in Captain America The First Avenger

Michael Jai White: The Martial Arts Expert

Michael Jai White's expertise in martial arts sets him apart as a candidate for the role of T'Challa. With a background in action-heavy films like Spawn and Black Dynamite, White's skill in combat scenes makes him a strong fit for the action-packed adventures of the Black Panther.

Derek Luke as Antwone Fisher in Antwone Fisher

Having previously portrayed superheroes in other franchises, White's experience and physical prowess make him a compelling choice to take on the mantle of the Black Panther in the MCU.

Derek Luke as Aubrey Stamps in Miracle at St. Anna

Omari Hardwick: The Regal Performer

Omari Hardwick's regal presence and dramatic versatility make him a perfect fit for the role of T'Challa. Best known for his roles in Power and Army of the Dead, Hardwick's captivating screen presence and ability to deliver drama would continue Chadwick Boseman's legacy brilliantly.

Derek Luke as Marcus Moore in The Purge

With experience in science fiction projects, Hardwick is well-equipped to navigate the MCU's diverse storylines while retaining the regal essence of the Black Panther.

Michael Jai White as Gambol in The Dark Knight

John Boyega: The Rising Star

John Boyega's journey from Attack the Block to Star Wars has showcased his talent and range as an actor. While previously expressing hesitation towards the MCU, the significance of the Black Panther's legacy may sway Boyega to consider the role.

Omari Hardwick as James St. Patrick in Power

With recent rumors linking him to other MCU roles, Boyega's potential involvement in the Marvel universe, particularly as T'Challa, remains an intriguing possibility.

John Boyega as Fontaine in They Cloned Tyrone

Laz Alonso: The Versatile Performer

Laz Alonso's impressive physique and ability to balance drama and comedy make him a strong contender for the role of T'Challa. Known for his roles in The Boys and Avatar, Alonso's versatility as an actor positions him as a potential candidate to embody the powerful and multi-faceted character of the Black Panther.

Laz Alonso as Mother's Milk in The Boys-1

A transition to the MCU could further elevate Alonso's popularity, while allowing him to bring a unique interpretation to the role of T'Challa.

Laz Alonso as Tsu'tey in Avatar

Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje: The Intense Performer

Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje's captivating intensity and experience in superhero films make him a compelling choice for the role of T'Challa. Known for his roles in Lost and Suicide Squad, Akinnuoye-Agbaje's ability to balance power and emotional depth aligns with the complexities of the Black Panther character.

Laz Alonso as Hector Negron in Miracle at St. Anna

With a background in superhero franchises, Akinnuoye-Agbaje's potential return to the genre as the Black Panther would offer a fresh and dynamic portrayal of the iconic hero.

Laz Alonso as Fenix Calderon in Fast and Furious

Michael Ealy: The Charismatic Performer

Michael Ealy's charm and theatrical flair position him as a strong candidate for the role of T'Challa. With a diverse range of roles in Barbershop and Westworld, Ealy's ability to navigate drama, comedy, and science fiction makes him a compelling choice to bring the charismatic and regal essence of the Black Panther to life.

Laz Alonso as Terry in My Dad the Bounty Hunter

Ealy's captivating screen presence and style make him a natural fit for the world of Wakanda, offering a fresh interpretation of the iconic superhero.

Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje as Mr. Eko in Lost

David Oyelowo: The Theatrical Performer

David Oyelowo's theatrical experience and captivating screen presence make him an ideal candidate to portray T'Challa. With a background in projects like Selma and The Midnight Sky, Oyelowo's ability to navigate dramatic and science fiction narratives aligns with the complexities of the Black Panther's character.

Michael Ealy as Jake Reed in Westworld

Oyelowo's commitment to his roles and theatrical flair position him as a compelling choice to bring the regal and powerful essence of the Black Panther to the forefront.

David Oyelowo as Kiel in The Cloverfield Paradox

Lakeith Stanfield: The Versatile Talent

Lakeith Stanfield's versatility and range as an actor make him a strong contender for the role of T'Challa. With a diverse portfolio of roles in Get Out and Judas and the Black Messiah, Stanfield's ability to navigate drama, comedy, and intense narratives positions him as a compelling choice to embody the powerful and multifaceted character of the Black Panther.

Lakeith Stanfield as Apollo in The Changeling

Stanfield's rapid rise in the industry and acclaimed performances make him an exciting prospect to take on the iconic role of T'Challa in the MCU's future.

Lakeith Stanfield as Andre Hayworth and Logan King in Get Out

Y'lan Noel: The Eager Contender

Y'lan Noel's interest in portraying T'Challa positions him as a dedicated and enthusiastic contender for the role. With a range of projects spanning drama, action, and comedy, Noel's expressed eagerness to take on the mantle of the Black Panther reflects his passion and commitment to the character.

Lakeith Stanfield as Cassius Green in Sorry to Bother You

Noel's potential involvement in the MCU, combined with his genuine enthusiasm, makes him a compelling choice to bring a fresh perspective to the iconic superhero.

Lakeith Stanfield as Marcus in Short Term 12