An Analysis of the 'What If... T’Challa Becomes Star-Lord' Episode and Its Impact on Black Panther

Marvel Comics has captured the hearts of millions of fans with its vast and complex universe. One particular episode of What If..., titled “What if T’Challa Became A Star-Lord,” sparked discussions on the character's adaptability and the authenticity of the portrayal of T’Challa by Chadwick Boseman. This article delves into the nuances of T’Challa’s character development and Chadwick Boseman’s nuanced performance, exploring the episode's success and the impact on the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever film.

The Multiverse and T’Challa's Leadership

In the episode, T’Challa is depicted as a born leader, mirroring his performance in Black Panther. Regardless of the particular universe, T’Challa proves his leadership by adapting to the unique challenges he faces. This is a testament to Chadwick Boseman's ability to portray a versatile character, showcasing not only his comic skills but also his ability to convey deep emotional content. His performance in the episode balanced scenes where he plays along with Yondu's deception and emotions that erupt once the truth hits him. It showcased the extent of Boseman’s talent and his ability to take on the weight of the story.

Accents and Accurate Representation

One of the most discussed aspects of the episode is the use of accents. T’Challa speaking with a Wakandan accent in this variant is inconsistent with the established lore. In the episode, T’Challa is portrayed as being raised in America, which would naturally suggest he might have an American accent. The question arises: is it fair to give a character of color an accent when their background is in America? This is particularly poignant when considering the broader context of accent representation in media.

Typically, characters who immigrate to a new country lose their accents if they are young enough, adapting to the language and culture of their new home. The What If... episode's decision to portray T’Challa with a Wakandan accent despite his supposed American upbringing has raised questions about the writers’ approach to character authenticity. Similarly, would Aaron Taylor-Johnson have spoken with a Sokovian accent if Yondu’s men kidnapped Pietro, given that Pietro is originally from Sokovia?

Marvel's inconsistent handling of accents has been a recurring issue, with T’Challa being a prominent example. The inconsistent portrayal of accents can lead to confusion and raises questions about the writers' commitment to accurate representation.

Chadwick Boseman's Contemplation and Legacy

The episode not only showcased T’Challa’s adaptability but also highlighted how Chadwick Boseman brought this character to life as a passionate and committed actor. After voicing T’Challa in the What If... episode, Boseman shared his thoughts with Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige and Black Panther director Ryan Coogler, expressing a desire to see more of T’Challa's animated personality put into the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever film. Unfortunately, Boseman's untimely death meant that this vision could not be realized.

While the film proceeded with his memorial, the absence of Boseman's voice and presence were deeply felt. His leadership and commitment to the character are memories that fans hold dear, and the episode serves as a reminder of his incredible talent and the impact he had on the Marvel universe. The episode's success lies in its ability to capture the essence of T’Challa and the spirit of Boseman.

Conclusion

The What If T’Challa Became A Star-Lord episode of What If... is a poignant reminder of how important it is to balance character authenticity and narrative coherence. It showcases the complexity of T’Challa as a character and the nuances of Boseman's performance. Despite the shortcomings in accent consistency, the episode remains a tribute to both T’Challa and Chadwick Boseman, offering a window into the rich tapestry of the Marvel universe.